Ep 8. Who Shot Alan B'Stard
- January 13, 1990
- 60 min
The New Statesman season 2 episode 8, entitled "Who Shot Alan B'Stard", follows the conniving and corrupt Member of Parliament Alan B'Stard as he navigates his way through a mystery involving his own attempted assassination.
The episode begins with B'Stard waking up in the hospital, having been shot in the chest. His assistant, Sarah, is at his bedside, and she informs him that they have no idea who could have done it. She also tells him that the press has been hounding her for information, and that she's worried about what they might turn up.
B'Stard is undaunted by the attempt on his life, however, and sees it as an opportunity to gain sympathy and power. He quickly begins to spin the story in his favor, telling anyone who will listen that he was targeted by left-wing extremists who hate him for his conservative views.
As the investigation into the shooting continues, B'Stard becomes increasingly paranoid and erratic. He starts accusing anyone and everyone of being the shooter, including his own wife, who he's convinced was paid off by his enemies to kill him.
Meanwhile, Sarah is doing her best to keep B'Stard's office running smoothly, but she's being pulled in all directions by his various schemes and vendettas. She's also trying to deal with her own guilt, as she realizes that she may have unwittingly played a part in the assassination attempt by giving away key information to the wrong people.
As the tension builds and suspicions run high, it becomes clear that there's more to this shooting than meets the eye. The final twist will leave viewers stunned and satisfied as they see what really happened and who was behind it all.
With its witty writing, sharp political satire, and pitch-perfect performances, "Who Shot Alan B'Stard" is a standout episode of The New Statesman that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats from start to finish.