The grumpiest inspector in Britain solves crimes while everyone else quits. Chaos? Obviously.
Season 2 • Episode 8
LatestThis spin-off from The Odd Man (1962) starred William Mervyn as the acerbic Inspector Rose, who, alongside the soft-hearted pensive Det. Sgt. Swift (Keith Barron), are joined by Anthony (John Carson) and Alice Brand (June Toblin), a barrister and his journalist wife, though not for long. By the second season, the Brands and Swift departed, leaving the calm, cold Rose in prime position, supported by newcomers DS Hunter (Anthony Ainley), his girlfriend Claire (Veronica Strong), and her boozy reporter friend Fred Blaine (John Stratton).
Acting
Mervyn's magnificent grump—unbothered, unmatched
Writing
Barbed dialogue sharper than the actual crimes
Creator
Derek Bennett
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Anthony Ainley later became Doctor Who's Master—apparently villainy was always in his future.
A rare 1960s spin-off that outlived its parent show, proving grumpy inspectors have better staying power than whatever The Odd Man was selling.
GB
