The Guardians

The Guardians is a television drama series of 13x60 minute episodes made by London Weekend Television and broadcast in the UK on the ITV network between July 10, 1971 and October 2, 1971. The opening titles and closing credits included a memorable theme tune composed by Wilfred Josephs.

Seasons

1. The State of England

Air Date: 1971-07-10

After a period of mass unemployment, chaos and a complete failure of the government, law and order has been restored in England. However the price of this new order is personal liberty. Dissenters soon appear, dedicated to the overthrow of the new regime.

2. Pursuit

Air Date: 1971-07-17

An attempt has been made on the Prime Minister’s life, and an agent planted to root out communists within The Guardians is shot dead.

3. Head of State

Air Date: 1971-07-24

The French President objects to Britain's participation in a united European defence force, and refuses to recognise the Prime Minister as head of state. Chris Hobson falls foul of the Guardians when he investigates the disappearance of one of their officers. Sir Tim decides to assert his authority over his cabinet.

4. The Logical Approach

Air Date: 1971-07-31

Sir Timothy finally uses his brains and God given skills to become an effective Prime Minister.

5. Quarmby

Air Date: 1971-08-07

The Prime Minister conducts an investigation into the shooting of Sam Wilson who was in custody for killing Hollis.

6. Appearances

Air Date: 1971-08-14

Benedict kills a detective and then returns his attention to disrupting The Guardians.

7. This Is Quarmby

Air Date: 1971-08-21

Quarmby takes a new approach to disrupting the government by taking their campaign to the general public.

8. The Dirtiest Man in the World

Air Date: 1971-08-28

Tom is still being held prisoner and trying to escape. Benedict wants to use him as a pawn so decides to help him with his escape plan.

9. I Want You to Understand Me

Air Date: 1971-09-04

The resistance grows as the government steps up its repressive policies.

10. The Nature of the Beast

Air Date: 1971-09-11

Clare turns to Benedict for help in finding Tom. Benedict still has plans to use Tom as a scapegoat.

11. The Roman Empire

Air Date: 1971-09-18

The government is continuing to battle public unrest and now must deal with plots from within the Cabinet itself.

12. The Killing Trade

Air Date: 1971-09-24

Tom is now in a coma at Benedict's apartment. Quarmby wants to get rid of him before The Guardians discover his location.

13. End in Dust

Air Date: 1971-10-01

The stage is set for the final showdown. Quarmby, the Prime Minister, the Cabinet and The Guardians are all set for battle. Chris and Norman are now forced to choose sides as this series comes to its conclusion.

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Rating

5.5/10

Release Date

1971-07-10

Episodes

13 (1 seasons)

Status

Ended

Cast