Watch The Gentle Touch

The Gentle Touch is a British police procedural drama that aired from 1980 to 1984. The show starred Jill Gascoine in the lead role of Detective Inspector Maggie Forbes, the first woman to head a murder squad in the Metropolitan Police Force. William Marlowe also starred in the show as Detective Inspector Bill Russell, Forbes' colleague and friend.

The Gentle Touch was a groundbreaking show at the time, as it featured a strong female lead in a predominantly male-dominated genre. The show followed Forbes as she solved crimes and fought against sexism and harassment within the police force.

The show was set in London and showcased the city's diverse communities and social issues. Forbes' cases ranged from murders, kidnappings, and robberies to more nuanced crimes such as domestic violence and prostitution. The show was lauded for its realistic portrayal of 1980s London and the challenges faced by women in the workforce.

Gascoine's portrayal of Forbes was praised for her ability to balance her tough exterior with her vulnerability and humanity. Forbes was a complex character who struggled to balance her demanding job with her personal life, which included being a single mother to her teenage son. Marlowe's character, Russell, was also well-received, and the show explored the dynamic between him and Forbes, who had a close professional and personal relationship.

Throughout the show's run, Forbes faced numerous challenges, including sexist colleagues and superiors who attempted to undermine her authority. She also had to navigate the expectations of being a single mother and the guilt she felt for not being able to fully devote herself to raising her son. Despite these obstacles, Forbes remained a tenacious and determined detective who often went above and beyond to solve crimes and bring offenders to justice.

The Gentle Touch was known for its gripping storylines and the way it tackled difficult and often controversial subject matter. The show wasn't afraid to delve into issues such as racism, homophobia, and police corruption, and it was commended for its honest and realistic portrayal of these topics.

Overall, The Gentle Touch was a trailblazing show that paved the way for other female-led police procedurals. It remains a beloved classic in the genre and a testament to the strength and resilience of women in law enforcement.

The Gentle Touch is a series that ran for 5 seasons (58 episodes) between April 11, 1980 and on FilmRise