First Broadcast
1985 – 1986
Episodes
30
Starring
Michael Brandon, Glynis Barber, Ray Smith, Tony Osoba
Background
This LWT action-crime drama hit the headlines as the tabloid press obsessed about the show's two co-stars Michael Brandon and Glynis Barber. While the onscreen characters always flirted with each other, the leading lady and man fell in love off screen.
The Story
When tough New York cop Lt. James Dempsey gets caught up in a police corruption investigation and his partner is killed, he’s transferred to London for his own safety.
He is teamed with Sgt (Lady) Harriet Makepeace, a member of the British aristocracy and daughter of a Lord. This mismatched couple join specialised task force, SI 10, under the leadership of Gordon Spikings.
The duo reluctantly work well together, cracking cases and always catching the bad guys.
Best Moments
Has to be the on-screen chemistry between the two co-stars, with their continual flirting, bickering and constant ‘will they won’t they?’ intrigue.
After the Show
The on-screen chemistry between the leading pair blossomed into a real love affair. The two were married in 1989 and had a son in 1992 and the couple are still together. Glynis was recently seen in Emmerdale, while Michael was nominated for an Olivier Award for his role in Jerry Springer the Opera. He’s also appeared in Doctor Who, The Bill, Casualty, Catherine Tate and much more.
Top D&M Quotes
Dempsey: You can tell a lot about a person by their gun.
Makepeace: So what can you tell me.
Dempsey: Small, but effective. Hardly used.
Makepeace: Let me see yours. Hmm, over-sized, over-used and over here.
Dempsey: Cute.
Makepeace: You? Order me?
Dempsey: You're damn' right. I'm a lieutenant and you… are just a sergeant.
Makepeace: We… don't have lieutenants!
Dempsey: You've got one now.
Makepeace: I mean, how can we carry this off if we don't even like each other?
Dempsey: Who says we have to like each other? Lots of married couples hate each other's guts. We could be one of them.
Dempsey: You know something Makepeace? Sometimes I'd like to tear those lips of yours right off your face.
Makepeace: What?
Dempsey: It'd be the only way I could kiss them.
Makepeace: Doesn't your libido ever get tired of you, Dempsey?
Dempsey: You know, together I'm sure we could beat it.
Trivia
Michael Brandon was married to the original Bionic Woman Lindsay Wagner.
Gynis Barber was born Glynis van der Reit in South Africa.
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