The Man from UNCLE is coming to talking pictures later this month — open Channel D now!

In the dark days of the Cold War, espionage series and films were as popular as they’ve ever been. Arguably, chief amongst these was The Man from UNCLE (technically U.N.C.L.E — United Network Command for Law Enforcement). Fans past and yet to be now have the chance to watch the show for free, thanks to Talking Pictures TV. As their schedule shows, the show arrives Tuesday December 30 at 6:55 pm. It starts with The Vulcan Affair…

So, what is The Man from UNCLE

With the first season being in black & white, the show ran for 105 episodes between 1964 and 68. Ian Fleming, creator of James Bond, was involved in the concept stage, creating both the character of Napoleon Solo and April Dancer (who would become the lead character in The Girl from UNCLE, a spin-off which ran for one season). Called the Man as it was centred on the character of American Napoleon Solo (Robert Vaughan), for most viewers it quickly became about Solo and Russian Illya Kuryakin (David McCallum). They are pictured above with the boss, Mr Waverley (Leo G Carroll).

More recently, a film by Guy Ritchie released in 2015 starred Henry Cavill as Solo, Armie Hammer as Kuryakin and Hugh Grant as Waverley.

Across the 105 episodes, there was a recurring enemy — the organisation known as THRUSH (never explained). Their aim was global domination, leading to the show having leads representing both sides of the Cold War. It had novels, comic books and other merchandising. Like James Bond, gadgets featured frequently and the agents were known for their secret communicators (which every kid wanted!), which ended up as special pens into which they could communicate one they said “Open Channel D“. The show dominated ratings at first, though less so when the humorous elements were played out. We look forward to seeing how the show looks all these decades later. Meanwhile, we just have time to find our communicators!

Until then, here’s a reminder of the show: