Visionary and disturbing, The Prisoner remains one of the most talked about series in the history of TV.
It has influenced dozens of subsequent programmes and yet remains an enigma. itv.com pays tribute to this remarkable product of the swinging 60s and tries to unravel its mysteries.
Who is No.6 and what is No.1?
First appearing on British television in 1967, it was one of the most expensive series produced by Lew Grade and ITC at the time.
It starred Patrick McGoohan as No.6 and charted his attempts to trace the real identity of his captors, and to unravel the mystery of the ever-elusive No1.
No.1 is forever thwarted by the mysterious white orbs knows as Rovers, who help to maintain order and will engulf anyone who attempts to escape.
Surreal and enchanting, The Prisoner was shot in the village of Portmeirion, a leading tourist attraction, which forms a captivating backdrop to the futuristic, fantastic and often bizarre interior sets.
"Whose side are you on?"
"That would be tellling."
"Who are you?"
"The new no.2"
Get a taste of the original series from our highlights clip. It'll make you think
Few dramas have ever provoked as much analysis as The Prisoner. But what the hell is it really about? Find out
