Watch Secret Agent: Series

Secret Agent, also known as Danger Man, is a British spy drama series that originally aired from 1960 to 1962 on the ITV network in the United Kingdom. The series was created by Ralph Smart and starred Patrick McGoohan as John Drake, a worldly and sophisticated intelligence operative who travels the world uncovering dangerous plots and foiling diabolical villains.

In each episode, John Drake is sent on a mission by his unnamed employer, simply referred to as "the other side of the moon." He travels to exotic locations, from Europe to the Far East, using his wits, gadgets and combat skills to outsmart and outfight the enemy. The stories are complex and intriguing, often involving international espionage, terrorist threats, and political upheavals.

With its sophisticated characterizations, well-crafted plots and moody atmospherics, Secret Agent is often cited as one of the most underrated spy series of its time. The show has a noirish, sinister feel, with plenty of suspense and action to keep audiences on the edge of their seats. McGoohan's John Drake is a fascinating character—intelligent, resourceful and unflappable, with a dry sense of humor and a steely determination to get the job done.

Secret Agent has been influential in the genre, inspiring later spy shows like The Avengers and The Prisoner. It also served as a proving ground for future stars, with guest appearances by actors like Christopher Lee, Patrick Troughton, and Honor Blackman.

The show is notable for its realistic portrayal of the spy game, eschewing the glamour and glitz of James Bond in favor of a more down-to-earth approach. John Drake is not a flashy playboy, but a skilled operative with a deep commitment to his work. His gadgets are practical rather than fanciful, and his enemies are often ruthless and deadly. The series is well-researched; the locations, costumes and sets are convincingly authentic, adding to the show's gritty realism.

The black and white cinematography is excellent, with moody lighting and inventive camera angles that add to the show's edgy atmosphere. The show's opening credits, with McGoohan striding confidently down a dark urban alley, accompanied by an eerie theme tune, are iconic.

The themes explored by Secret Agent are timeless: loyalty, patriotism, duty, and sacrifice. John Drake is a human being, not a superman, and the show often explores the moral dilemmas he faces in his line of work. The series also deals with issues of national identity, colonialism, and the Cold War, reflecting the political and social climate of the time.

Overall, Secret Agent is a smart and sophisticated spy thriller that deserves to be better known. McGoohan's John Drake is one of the great TV heroes, and the show's blend of action, suspense, and intellectual depth makes it a classic of the genre. Fans of spy fiction and classic TV will find much to appreciate here.

Secret Agent: Series is a series that ran for 4 seasons (22 episodes) between and on Shout! Factory TV