The Top 20 TV Shows I have watched since I was a Kid.

[cardiff1984]

NO.6. ONE FOOT IN THE GRAVE CONCLUDED...............


Here are three of my favourite Christmas Specials out of the six televised.



THREE FAVOURITE CHRISTMAS SPECIALS



ONE FOOT IN THE ALGARVE 1993.

Victor, Margaret and Jean Warboy's have experience some misadventures on their holiday in Portugal. Firstly, they stop at a bar, where Victors sorry attempt at interpreting Portuguese, gets Mrs Warboy's almost seduced, mistaken for a hooker. They are stopped by police at night and taken to an apparent scruffy jail, with no sight of anyone in two days, until the three spot, two holiday makers unpacking outside and Margaret undoes their suffering, by pushing open a dodgy door. To their horror, it's not a rotting jail, but their unhinged holiday villa. Mrs Warboys finds love with Alfonso, who then she believes killed his wife. Victor is stalked by a donkey, who eventually gets Victor into serious bother with a professional boxer and a paparazzo follows the Meldrew's believing they have in their possession, a story that forces him to take greater action, but unfortunately he and the snaps end up in the rubbish.


THE WISDOM OF THE WITCH, 1995.




When cousin Ursula passes on, an apparent curse will be placed on Victor according to a Witch, and he will be plagued by Devils. It leaves the Meldrew's needing to clear the deceased's country home, unbeknown to them that Edwin, Incy Wincy spider still lives at home. Victor is assaulted by an over enthusiastic American, who is thought to have bugged a PA system. Patrick's secretary gets him into bother, when her boyfriend is released from prison and believes she's having an affair with Patrick, because she told him she was to make him jealous, but he's not dangerous.....yeah right. Patrick is almost kidnapped by her lover, but accidently places him into Victors car and Meldrew takes Patrick to Ursula's place, not knowing Patrick is in his boot. When the two take refuge at a snowed in country home, Edwin escapes and the sight of Victor waving a Banana down the toilet, makes Victor even more misunderstood. Pipp arrives at the house with Margaret and Pippa and Patrick choose to find a hotel and end up checking in a last minute arrivals. Their last minute, could end up as their own porn movie, as Patrick discovers, when guests spy on them through a window, which is mirrored from the bedroom. Back to Ursula's they go, when Patricks secretary's psycho lover turns up and tries to choke Patrick to death. Victor then enters and audiences are left to wonder if Victor is no more. Not just yet, as Victor would have one more Christmas Special and series to moan about.


STARBOUND, 1996

A drug dealer whom has been living in the Meldrew's shed, inadvertently leaves his stash behind getting Victor hooked. Nick Swainey think his mother's abducted by Aliens. Patricks new employer wastes no time in showing how appreciating she is, even if it means making it too obvious to Pippa. Victor is so high, he mows Patricks employers front room, thus forcing the drug dealer to smash up her summerhouse.


The other Christmas specials are

'Who's Listening?'

'The Man In The Long Black Coat.'

'End Game.'

 

[cardiff1984]

5. Randall And Hopkirk (Deceased). 1969-70.





DURATION OF SERIES: 1969-1970

NO. SEASONS. 1

NO. EPISODES. 26


First saw this wonderful, Detective, Comedy, Supernatural, Drama back in the 90's, of which was being repeated on Channel 4. I was immediately hooked, even though the show was 24 years stopped by that time. The Excitement of every episode, kept me tuned, which followed the adventures and investigations of Jeffrey Randall (Mike Pratt), with the help of his best friend - ghostly Marty Hopkirk, (Kenneth Cope) now deceased following a hit and run murder. Jeff is the only one who can see Marty, with the exception of certain manifestations. Marty's widow, Jean Hopkirk (Annette Andre) makes up the regular cast and often gets caught up or involved with the criminal investigations.

Marty being the ghost on Jeff's shoulder comes in very handy, with solving the issues, that Jeff needs to make ends meat for a corporation keeping it's just above water, in it's London setting. It begins by solving Marty's own murder, of which occurs in the very first episode 'My Late Lamented Friend And Partner.'
A divorce case involving a rich business woman and her husband, becomes a murder case, which is covered up for heart failure. Jeff is originally on the case, but Marty takes his place, when Jeff is out of town. Not taking any chances, Sorenson, the murdered wife's husband, take no chances and kills off Marty. Leaving behind a wife, Marty returns to Earth and presents himself as the only living ghoul to be seen by his best friend and colleague, Jeff. Following the success of getting justice for his death, Marty being out of the grave for so long, leaves him now stranded on Earth for a hundred years, where he can now keep an eye on Jeannie and be a helping hand to Jeff.

On occasions, the jobs involved don't always go according to plan, as at times Jeff gets frustrated with Marty, even in matters of life and death. In the episode 'Never Trust A Ghost,' Marty witnesses a murder, while Jeff is on a date and Marty's abrupt appearance puts a damper on the moment. Marty manages to bring Jeff round , only to discover the man murdered is apparently alive. Jeff ignores Marty's claims, who later almost gets Jeff arrested. As it turns out the man who was killed, is actually replaced by a doppelganger, along with a female accomplice and a hit man.

'The episode 'The Smile Behind The Veil,' sees Marty make a shocking discovery, next to his own grave, when he discovers his neighbour is murdered by a fraud, who has stolen somebody else's identity to claim the dead girls will. Marty encourages Jeff to investigate, but Jeff is on another case. But, Marty uses his ghostly power and diverts directly into the devils quarters. Jeff is temporarily deceased, after being thrown into a river. When revived, by the person who's identity was stolen and with a little help from his ghostly partner, the case is solved again.


Marty on occasions criticizes Jeff's driving and berates Jeff when, his friend needs to borrow his car, which is now technically Jeannie's.






Even, though, Marty is often willing to help his friend in need, Jeff is often quite handy with his fists and at times can take care of himself. But, when the going gets tough, it can see Jeff end up on his arse. And there are numerous episodes in which these two things can happen and it forces Marty to intervene.

Jeannie, is very warm hearted lady and takes a job at R&H as Jeff's secretary, not long after her husbands passing and unknown return into the Walking Dead. Marty is very overprotective of Jeannie and gets jealous when she suggests of meeting and dating other Males. He even gets offended, when he thinks Jeff has a romantic link to his widow. Marty always reminds Jeff, that Jeannie is not just his secretary.

'The Man From Nowhere,' features a middle aged man claiming to be Marty resurrected husband and it appears Jeannie buys into this. As it was suspected it's a scam, to use Jeannie to lead the conman and his accomplices to priceless merchandize in a woodland.

'Vendetta For A Dead Man,' sees dangerous criminal, Jenson, escape from prison with the intent to take revenge on Marty, who put him there. But, when he receives news he's deceased, he goes after Jeannie. It also gets a old flame of Jeannie into bother, when he's placed inside a meat freezer by Jenson and dies temporarily and meets Marty, who wastes no time in showing the poor chap what he thinks of him, after he asks who Marty is?

'Marty Hopkirk. My wife's husband.'



Jeff is often disliked by the Police Inspectors, who on more than one occasion, wants to throw the book at Jeff, who finds himself inadvertently the centre of the criminal world, when trying to make ends meat.



N0.5. RANDALL AND HOPKIRK (DECEASED) TO BE CONCLUDED..............

 

[cardiff1984]

N0.5. RANDALL AND HOPKIRK CONCLUDED.



EPISODE LIST AND *FAVOURITE EPISODES. *


*1. My Late Lamented Friend And Partner.*

Private Investigator Marty Hopkirk is mowed down by a hired hit and run driver and returns as a ghost and requires the hep of his partner, Jeff to solve his murder.





2. * A Disturbing Case.*

Doctor Lambert hypnotises his patients to music, so he can force them to them to open their safes. And when Jeannie suspects Jeff is having a break down, when she catches him talking to himself, she and her sister, Jenny have him committed to Lamberts, where Lambert briefly edits Marty out of Jeff's head. Marty mimics Lamberts voice, so Jeff will co-operate and it becomes a long winded task for Marty to comprehend, until Lambert is brought to justice.

"This'll be the death of me," deceased Marty says to himself.


3. *All Work No Pay.*

Two eccentric and conmen brothers, manipulate Jeannie into believing Marty is haunting her, by staging a poltergeist at her apartment. Jeff uses an old friend to pretend she has a son, into tricking the brothers to slip up. But, both Jeff and Jeannie, along with Jeff's friend end up in the Foster brothers trap and Marty saves the day, by putting Southern England in the dark.


4. Never Trust A Ghost.

5. That's How Murder Snowballs.

6. Just For The Record.


7. *When Did You Start To Stop Seeing Things.*

Jeff is totally out of character. Ghostly Marty suspects that Jeff has lost his mind and has amnesia and forces the aid of patients to get a hypnotist to visit Jeff. Things start to turn more sinister, when Jeff makes a pass at Marty's widow and then commits murder. But, it's not until Marty sees that Jeff isn't really, Jeff, when he takes off a mask. Jeff has been kidnapped and Marty is elated when Jeannie uses her detective skills to locate the real Jeff Randall.

8. *Whoever Heard Of A Ghost Dying?*

A psychic can see Marty and manipulates Marty, during his plans to make several robberies, so when Marty who witnesses the plans, retreats to tell Jeff, the psychic informs the burglars that the ghost has vacated the room, they change their plans. Marty is then threatened to be banished from Earth, when Jeannie is caught between the psychics plans.

9. *Murder Ain't What It Used To Be.'

A dead gangster blackmails Marty into forcing Jeff into a case, with the protection of a former gangsters daughter, so he can avenge the gangster that got him killed. If he doesn't he will bring harm to his widow, Jeannie.


10. The House On Haunted Hill.

12. But, What A Sweet Little Room.

13. The Ghost Who Saved The Bank At Monte Carlo

14. For The Girl Who Has Everything.

15. Who Killed Cock Robin.


16. *The Man From Nowhere.*

A conman claims to be the resurrected Marty Hopkirk, so he can use Jeannie in finding stolen Merchandize that was dumped in a woodland in Oxford.

17. When The Spirit Moves You.

18. Could You recognize The Man Again.

19. A Sentimental Journey.

20. Money To Burn

21. *The Ghost Talks.*

While Jeff Randall is laid up in hospital with a broken leg, Marty tells him the story of case he was on, when he was alive. Committing a robbery for a corrupt M15 and a spy ring, to which Marty goes to desperate measures to clear his name.



Marty alive, with his wife Jeannie, before his days as a ghost.


22. It's Supposed To Be Thicker than water.

23. The Trouble With Women


24. *Vendetta For A Dead Man.*

A Vengeful criminal escapes incarceration in order to go after the man who put him in jail - Marty Hopkirk. But, when he discovers, that Marty is no longer alive, it's up to Jeff Randall to protect Jeannie and her new love interest.

25. You Can Always Find A Fall Guy.


26. *The Smile Behind The Veil.*

Marty overhears the possibility of a murder, near his grave and desperately wants Jeff to investigate, who can't as he's on another case. But, uses his ghostly powers, Jeff is forced to take on a criminal who has stolen somebody else's identity to claim the Will of the person they killed. Jeff briefly becomes a ghost in this episode.

 

[cardiff1984]

4. Smallville. 2001 - 2011





For it's entire ten year decade running, I did not take any notice of this Gem. It wasn't until it was repeated on the Syfy Channel that I did. I was hooked immediately. I was amazed at how good the acting was and how well the Actors & Actresses fitting their characters perfectly and each episode was well paced and intriguing. The characters and those on set appear to have such amazing chemistry throughout. I got the full DVD Box Set for Christmas 2012 (seasons 1 - 10) and must have watched the entire series, at least four or five times over. It took me less than two months to watch it all, the first time. Always been a Superman fan and this was one adventure I will always have fun with.

The story revolves around Clark Kent (Tom Welling), a boy who's destiny is to big to comprehend and his journey to become the man he's supposed to be lasts Ten Seasons and 218 episodes. Clark Kent, known as Kal -El, arrives on Earth during a Meteor Shower and is raised by the Kent family in the Small Kansas town of Smallville, where Clark must in no doubt protect his secret, to protect himself from those, who he may think cause him harm. Throughout the series, he fights Meteor Freaks, Krytonian Aliens, Clones, Super villains, Luthor's and sometimes his inner demons and his destiny. His destinies outcome depends on the trials his biological father sends him out on, to prove he has the power to protect the Human Race as one, and be seen as the beacon of hope to the World. Early on, his parents Martha ( Annette O' Toole), and Jonathan (John Schneidor) are very overprotective of their son and worry his journey into the unknown, will take him away from them and that his trials are not what they seem.

His journey to becoming the Man Of Steel doesn't go without it's love story. The majority of the show, up until season 8, focused on the Yo Yo, relationship, between Clark and Lana Lang (Krisin Kreuk ) and later on Lois Lane (Erica Durance). Clarks desperation to be with Lana, comes at a price. His need to protect her, as his enemies could use her against him and throughout the show, it becomes apparent, especially when rich Billionaire Lex Luthor lives in the same town. Much later on, Lois Lane chemistry with his alter ego, is enough for Clark to know who his true soul mate really is.




First Love




True Love

Clark has numerous sidekicks in the series, Pete Ross (Sam Jones III), Oliver Queen aka Green Arrow, (Justin Hartley) etc - plenty more from the DC World. But, Clarks number one friend and later on sidekick is that of computer hacker and highly rated IQ whiz girl, Chloe Sullivan (Allison Mack), who often helps Clark through his tasks with her high tech skills. Chloe in her high school years, works on the Torch newspaper, mid point series, Daily Planet and later seasons she is known as Watchtower.

And every love story, has an enemy to go with it. There numerous, Meteor Freaks, Aliens, Lionel Luthor (John Glover), Doomsday aka Davis Bloome (Sam Witwer) or Zod (Callum Blue). However, Clarks true enemy is that of his former best friend - Lex Luthor (Michael Rosenbaum). Clark and Lex meet in crazy circumstances, when Lex accidently runs Clark and his himself off a bridge in the first episode. Clark rescues Lex and his future enemy is sure he hit clark at full throttle, but Clark denies this and the two quickly become the best of friends, much to the caution of Clarks family and friend Pete. Clark becomes Lex's obsession believing him to something much more than normal and with Clarks denial, gives Lex the chance to steal the crown jewel of Clarks soul, Lana. It comes as no surprise, as it appears Lex has been pursuing her since the first season. He manipulation and seemingly acts of kindness towards Clark and others, seems to play into his hands to hide his true darkness, but eventually his true colours never go unnoticed and leads him to commit the darkest of crimes and ultimately be the true enemy of SUPERMAN.

"We have a destiny together Clark - only on different sides," Lex says.

"And I'll always be there to stop you. Always," Clark insists.

"Oh, I'm counting on it."



Frienemy Of Clark Kent - LEX LUTHOR!




NO.4. SMALLVILLE TO BE CONCLUDED.........

 

[cardiff1984]

NO.4. SMALLVILLE CONTINUED......




FULL SERIES RECAP.




EARLY SEASONS ( Series 1 -3)

Series 1

Kal- El lands on Earth in a Spaceship, constructed by his late father Jor-El on October 12th 1989, bringing a Meteor Shower with him, which leaves green meteor rock, scattered across Smallville and the outskirts and turns normal people into Metahumans. Kal -El renamed Clark, by the people he calls Mom and Dad, Jonathan and Martha, is now raised by them on their farm in Smallville, Kansas. When he reaches Freshman year at High School, his infatuation with Lana Lang increases, who's already in a relationship with the schools football jockey, Whitney (Eric Johnson), and forms a strong friendship with Chloe Sullivan and is already friends with Pete Ross. Clark learns more about his origins, after he meets Lex Luthor, who runs him off Loebs Bridge with his car and the two form a strong friendship, to which Lex becomes obsessed to finding the truth out about Clark. Clark is shocked to discover he's from another planet and not really human. Throughout the course of the rest of the season Clark comes up against the Meta Humans with different abilities affected by the meteor rocks, that originate from Krypton and he discovers that the rocks, known as Kryptonite could kill him. Clarks parents still the only to know of his secret are sceptical about Clarks friendship with Lex and rightly so, when Lex gets involved with a reporter who investigates Clark and tests him by blowing up the family truck.

Season 1 conclusion. Clark is Chloe Sullivan's date for the Prom, Nixon threatens to expose Clarks secret when he is caught filming the spaceship in the storm cellar by the Kent's and Jonathan goes after him. Lionel attempts to get Lex back to Metropolis, by selling the local nuclear plant, when a Tornado strikes town. Whitney joins the marines and Clark ditches Chloe at Prom to save Lana caught up in the twister.


Series 2. Clark saves Lana from the twister and Nixon is thwarted from exposing Clarks to Lex, when Lex kills him, saving Jonathan Kent. Clark discovers more of his origin, when scientist Virgil Swann (Christopher Reeve), tells him that his destiny is far greater than he ever imagined and Clark discovers Indian Caves, known as the Kawatche, which holds a link to his Kryptonian heritage. However, Lionel seems too far interested than Clark likes. Lex meets a doctor, called Helen Bryce, who seems his perfect soul mate, but her intensions are not a happily ever after. Plus, Clark and Lana become a happy couple briefly and that for Chloe is heart breaking. Plus, Ross discovers Clark secret.

Series 2 conclusion. Clark destroys his spaceship as he believes Jor -El is trying to turn him into a monster. Martha miscarries and Lex is sent plummeting down to Earth, when Helen shows her true colours. Clark in disarray goes into exile, in Metropolis, leaving Lana behind.

Series 3

Clark causes chaos in Metropolis after putting on a red kryptonite ring and it takes the wisdom of a combination of Jor-El's reluctance and Jonathan's determination to bring Clark home after Clarks birth father temporarily gives Jonathan powers. This move however, is the slow beginning of the end of Jonathan Kent. Lex is placed in a Mental Institute by his father, to stop him from unveiling a dark secret from Lionel's past - the murder of his parents and he wipes 7 weeks of memory from Lex, but Lex finds a way to get justice for his grandparents in the end, but by doing so, puts Chloe in the crossfires. Pete getting caught up in Lionel's web of obsession with Clark, sees Ross leave Smallville and Clark behind. Jonathan suffers his first heart attack this season.

Series 3 conclusion- A girl claiming to be from Krypton attempts to manipulate Clark into accepting his destiny, but Jonathan and Chloe working together discovers she is not what she claims to be and Clark is tricked, whilst Jonathan is placed in a coma. Lana heads off to Paris, Lex is left near death after being poisoned and Chloe is believed to be dead after a safe how is rigged with explosives.


MIDDLE SEASONS (Series 4 - 7)

Series 4.

Clark returns to earth as a dark version of Kal-El and Martha separates the two, with Black Krytonite and Jonathan awakes from his coma. Lois Lane arrives and takes brief residence at the Kents. Chloe is alive and Lionel gets life in prison dying from liver disease. But, when Lionel temporarily swaps bodies with Clark, Lionel is healed and is released from incarceration. The majority of season four, is the search for three mythical stones, one of which transforms Lana briefly into a witch. The three stones of knowledge is of importance to Clarks destiny. When Lana gets blood on one of the stones, it awakens a force from out of space and sends down hell on Smallville again. Chloe discovers Clarks secret.

Series 4 conclusion. A second Meteor shower hits Smallville and Clarks combines the three stone of knowledge to form his fortress of solitude in the Artic.




Second Meteor Shower strikes Smallville.

Series 5. Clark and Lex are finally enemies. Kryptonians arrive hoping Clark will join them in being Gods among men for all the wrong reasons and a Kryptonian college lecturer, Milton Fine, who's really a machine called Brainiac, attempts to lure Clark into the abyss, to get General Zod out of the Phantom Zone. Clark breaks off his relationship with Lana again as he can' tell her his secret and she falls into the arms of the last person Clark expected - Lex. Sadly, Jonathan Kent passes away from a fatal heart attack, protecting Clarks future.

Series 5 conclusion

Lex is taken over by Brainiac and becomes Zod's Vessel. Brainiac causes a major breakdown over the Earths Infrastructure, bringing Dark Thursday. Clark is sent to the Phantom Zone.


NO.4. SMALLVILLE TO BE CONCLUDED.............

 

[cardiff1984]

NO.4. SMALLVILLE CONCLUDED......



SMALLVILLE RECAP CONCLUDED.



MIDDLE SEASONS (Series 4 - 7).


Series 6.

The season opens with Clark escaping the Phantom Zone, along with killer Phantoms and a girl called Raya. Clark takes on Zod, who's vessel is Lex and sends Zod back to the Phantom Zone. Jimmy Olsen arrives in Metropolis and reconnects with Chloe. Oliver Queen aka Green Arrow makes an appearance and falls in love with Lois. Clark, Queen, Cyborg and Aquaman join together and take down 33.1 facilities, which are habited by meteor freaks, trapped by Lex. Lana is forced to marry Lex , even after she discovers Clark's secret. Lana gets a shock, when she discovers she was never pregnant after Lex, gave her hormone injections to make her believe she was. Lex is forging an army of super beings with Kryptonian DNA. Martha Kent heads to Washington as the future US Senator. Martian Manhunter is introduced and Chloe discovers she has a meteor power.

Series 6 Conclusion

Lana leaves Lex after his darkness is goes into overdrive and an explosion leaves Lana's fate in the balance.
Lionel assures Clark he's on his side. At the Dam where Lex experiments take place, a young boy is to become the next part of his psychotic projects. Lois is stabbed, but brought back to life by Chloe's powers, but it may have come at a cost - her life. The phantom who takes over a boy and causes a massacre, quickly swaps the boys as a vessel and replicates Clarks DNA, creating Bizarro, Clark replica Doppelganger. Lex is arrested for killing Lana, but the Dam breaks causing an immediate flood. Clark and Bizarro fight it out.


Series 7

Lex is rescued from the Dam, by Clarks Kryptonian Cousin, Kara and is cleared of Lana's murder, when she resurfaces. Lana is reunited with Clark, after he fights off Bizarro. Chloe survives her ordeal, but will her healing powers eventually come at a cost, if she over uses them? Kara moves into the Kents. Clark is briefly reunited, with his Krytonian mother, Lara who's DNA was stored in a crystal. Bizarro makes a short return, fooling Lana he is the real Clark. Brainiac makes a comeback and places Clark into a corner, when he puts Lana into a Catatonic state. It appears a society, called Veritas once discovered that Clark was to arrive on Earth around the time of the first Meteor Shower, but Lionel wanted to have the traveller all to himself and has the Queens murdered. This makes Lex become so hell bent on getting to the truth her murders Virgil Swann's daughter and later his own father, Lionel.

Series 7 Conclusion

Kara is sent to the Phantom Zone by Brainiac. Lana comes out of her catatonic state and sends a heart breaking goodbye tape to Clark. Lois encourages Clark to join the Daily Planet. Lex discovers Clarks secret and heads to the Fortress Of Solitude for a major showdown with his once best friend. Lex insists he loves Clark like a brother, before bringing the Fortress down on them both, with an orb that controls Clark.


LATER YEARS (Season 8 - 10)

Season 8

Lutessa Mercer is placed in charge of Lex's empire and Lex is eventually killed by Oliver Queen. Chloe loses her meteor ability. Clark starts his new career at the Daily Planet, where Tess starts a replica obsession that Lex had, although it appears she may have different intensions. Lana makes a brief comeback to have closure for herself and Clark. Chloe starts her new career as the secret Watch Tower. Lois and Clark become closer and the Red Blue Blur, makes a regular name for himself as the new saviour to Metropolis and Green Arrow becomes a regular. Chloe and Jimmy get married, but not before an Ambulance driver, Davis Bloome gets obsessed with Clarks best psychic. What he forgets to realize, he's a huge Kryptonian Beast, destined to kill Clark. Chloe sacrifices her marriage to Jimmy to protect Clark, by staying with Bloome.


Series 8 conclusion

Clark and Arrow and the other Justice Team manage to separate Doomsday from Bloome and trap the beast, but Davis is just as murderous as his former alter ego and impales Jimmy. Jimmy saves Chloe, before dying in her arms. The Justice Team are so guilty they go into hiding and so does Clark. Lois discovers a ring, which once belonged to a Legion from the future and she disappears with it in her hand. Lutessa awakes to the arrival of Major Zod from an orb.


Series 9

Kandorian's from Krypton question their journey to Earth from an orb and why they have no powers and begin their quest to lure the last Kryptonian with powers into their vicinity - Clark. Lois's journey to the future, reveals that the Kandorian's unleash hell on Earth by the support of a solar tower which gives them powers, but with a year prior to that event, Clark destroys it. Tess learns of Clarks true origins. Lois and Clark become a couple. A former Justice League introduce themselves to the now heroes and require help to take on a secret organization known as Checkmate. Checkmate need agents to take inform them of threats from superheroes or Aliens and the only way out of Checkmate is no escape. The Kandorian's receives their powers, following Zod's resurrection by Clark, who offered his blood to save Zod. Chloe and Oliver become romantically involved and The Blur becomes a beacon of hope, yet demanded to come out of the shadows, which is berated by Lois. Lois and Clark officially become a couple and Lois gets closer to discovering Clarks secret.

Series 9 Conclusion.

Lois discovers Clarks secret and Oliver is kidnapped. Clark sends the Kandorians to another World, but Zod is not going quietly and fights it out with Clark on a roof. Zod stabs Clark with blue Kryptonite, but Clark manages to send Zod to the Phantom Zone.


Final Season

Clark admits he's the blur to Lois, who is elated. Tess discovers she is a Luthor, Lex's half sister. The vigilante registration act want control over the Heroes, but a public vote is brought to order and the VRA are voted down. It is revealed, that Lex created several clones of himself, some of which were abnormal, apart from one which is a perfect match of his former self. Tess becomes allies with Clark and his friends. Chloe marries Oliver and Lois and Clark get engaged. Following, Clarks triumph over Major Zod, Clark accidently opened a portal to bring Darkseid to Earth, a dark entity, which takes over those, who have darkness stored in them and control them to gather Prophets. He would do so by using doubts and fears in peoples soul. But, his powers would not be so great against those with strong heart and spirit. His prophets were to create an Omega Mark, with a gravitational pull, to steer a gigantic planet, known as Apokalips towards Earth. It's now or never, for Clark to take hold of his destiny.

Final Season conclusion.

A Lionel Luthor Doppelganger's heart is taken in exchange for the resurrection of Lex Luthor. Lois and Clarks wedding is interrupted by Oliver's possession by the darkness. Green Arrow vanquishes the three remaining prophets. Tess is murdered by Lex, but Tess redeems herself in death, by taking away all his memories he had in his life, including those in Smallville and Clarks secret. Clarks, ten year trials are at an end and he seizes his destiny. He stops Apokolips from hitting Earth, saving mankind. Seven years later, Lex is President Of The United States, Lois and Clark are full fledged reporters, Perry is editor, Jimmy's younger brother is photographer, Chloe and Oliver have a son and Lois and Clark are still trying to take their vows. The final moments of the series, sees Clark Kent step onto the Daily Planet rooftop and unveil his Red and Blue House of El, suit and flies off to save the day as SUPERMAN!




Closing moments of the series finale, as Clark goes off to save the day as the 'Man Of Steel.'

 

[cardiff1984]

3. Dallas. 1978 -1991





DURATION OF SERIES: 1978 -1991

NO. EPISODES: 356

NO. SEASONS 13 (DVD 14)



Oil, Stetsons, Cattle, Lust, Power and Greed, you can name so much of this iconic show. Dallas tells the story of a rich, at times dysfunctional, oil family, the Ewing's and their feud with the Barnes. A feud that has gone on for decades and would be on going as the series progresses. The show would start out as a Mini Series and was supposed to only last five episodes. But, the show became an immediate success it would last another thirteen seasons, which would provide amazing scandals, affairs, love stories, backstabbing, heartbreak and at the end of every season a Cliffhanger.

The series was supposed to centre mostly on the love story of Bobby Ewing (Patrick Duffy) and Pamela Barnes Ewing (Victoria Principal). However, a secondary character in the name of JR Ewing, (Larry Hagman), quickly made himself a household name and would go on to appear in every episode of the series. His presence on the show, carried the show from the on set and would carry the remainder of the series in the not so good years in its later times. JR would become so popular, he would become centre of one of the greatest cliffhangers of all time. Who shot JR? It would become a phenomenon World Wide, as it set off events which even put Bookies into bigger business, when people placed their bet on who the shooter was. It was later revealed to be JR's sister in law and lover, Kristin Shepherd ( Mary Crosby), who pulled the trigger. From then on, Dallas would go on to have many good years at the top of the TV ratings.

The other Ewing members were, the family Patriarch, Jock Ewing (Jim Davis), his wife, the Matriarch, Ellie Ewing (Barbara Belle Geddes), Sue Ellen Ewing, JR's wife (Linda Gray) and the Ewing grand daughter, Lucy (Charlene Tilton). There is also the Ranch Foreman, Ray Krebbs (Steve Kanaly) , who would later discover he's Jocks son.

Then there's Cliff Barnes, (Ken Kerchevel), brother to Pam, who is now married to Bobby. Of which now makes the Barnes Ewing feud even more complicated and than it started out. Especially now, Pam lives under the same roof as JR, who stops at nothing to rid Pam and destroy her brother.



One of many altercations JR Ewing would have with his nemesis Cliff Barnes.


The series would bring in some intense storylines, such as Ellie's mastectomy, Sue Ellen's struggle with Alcohol abuse, Who dunnit Cliffhangers, Bobby and Pam's on going love story, JR's affairs and at times business espionage, just to get what he wants to beat his enemies. However, there was a true tragedy in 1981, which saw the passing of Jim Davis from a Brain Tumour, to which they wrote out Jock Ewing, who is believed to have died in a plane crash off screen.

But, it would eventually, be the storyline, that saw the slow beginning of the end for the show. Patrick Duffy's wanted to leave and it was debated how he would go. It was decided that his character, Bobby was to be killed off by his sister in law, Katherine Wentworth (Morgan Brittany) in a car incident. Once Patrick was gone, it felt like there was an empty space in the show and even though it appeared Larry was carrying it during the 1985-86 season, the show was at threat of going downhill and Larry convinced Patrick to return as Bobby. Patrick accepted, but how would Patrick make his sudden return by the time season cliffhanger comes round? The ending scene shows Pam awake at her home and discover Bobby in alive in her shower.
It wasn't until the following season, that it was revealed that the entire previous season was just a Pam Ewing dream. Some fans reacted furiously to this and this started the eventual decline of Dallas, which would see the shows greatest characters go through the exit door, notably Principals character Pam, then Linda Grays, Sue Ellen, Steve Kanaly's, Krebbs, etc - Dallas was in a heap and it would be made worse with some dreadful characters thrown in, some of which I will reluctantly mention in the full Dallas recap.

By 1991, the show had reached it's tether. Hagman, Duffy and Kerchevel were the only remaining originally cast left and the series bowed out with one of the most outrageous cliffhangers to be brought to soap. Alongside, the ridiculous ending, involving Fallon's abduction by Aliens in The Colby's, came an It's A Wonderful Life homage conclusion in Dallas, to which sees JR shown the error of his ways by an apparent angel, who's not. The ending is that of JR putting a revolver to his head and a gun shot going off, off screen, to which Bobby is the only witness to the unknown outcome.


DALLAS REBOOT 2012 - 2014







Dallas was rebooted in 2012, with the next generation of Ewing's and would only last three seasons. Larry Hagman would pass away during it's second season and a special episode was filmed during the second season dedicated to the passing of Larry's character JR.



NO.3. DALLAS TO BE CONTINUED......

 

[cardiff1984]

NO.3. DALLAS CONTINUED

*FAVOURITE DALLAS EPISODES*


​

*DIGGERS DAUGHTER, MINI SERIES (DVD SEASON 1), EPISODE 1.*




Bobby giving JR a stern warning in the very first episode.


The show began with the Romeo and Juliet premise of Bobby and Pamela. Bobby was the younger son to Jock Ewing, a rich Oil Baron, whilst Pam was the daughter of Jock's enemy, Willard 'Digger' Barnes. Her brother Cliff Barnes was a Politian, trying to find dirt on the Ewing's, who had supposedly wronged his father, forty or so years earlier. The marriage of Bobby and Pam, would make the Barnes - Ewing feud more complicated, awkward and bitter than it ever would and it would put Pam and Bobby's marriage, in between the hatred that not just Jock and Digger had, but a feud that JR and Cliff would have. Although, at times Cliff would be no match for JR's corruption and will to destroy him, it appeared that JR's actual arch enemy would be living under the same roof as him - Pamela Barnes Ewing, his baby brothers new bride. The family seemed reluctant to welcome Pam into the family fold and Jock was subtle straight from the off, asking Pam, when Cliff was going to give up his crusade against them. JR did not waste anytime in threatening the new addition, by trying to buy her off. However, if a Barnes suddenly becomes a Ewing, that's exactly what you'll get and Bobby was not having any of it. Ray Krebbs, the Ranch foreman to the Ewings is rather caught off guard by this, as he was dating Pam around the time Bobby married her, but it doesn't stop him from romping with his bosses grand daughter, Lucy, in the hayloft. What's even more worrying, is that later on in the series, it's discovered that Lucy is his niece. With Cliff being unhappy with his sisters stunt, it would definitely send her alcoholic father into that extra downward spiral and surely it did. Bobby in the mean time, is tired of being Ewing Oil's and his daddy's company pimp and wants to join JR at the business, now he's married. JR needs the help of Ray to split Bobby and Pam up for good and uses Ray's connection to Pam as a good motive. Ray takes Pam in a helicopter to show her the Ranch and then throws her into the lake, so he can take her back to his cabin in an attempt to seduce her. JR then drives Bobby to the cabin, where both Bobby and Pam discover the attempted plot to break them up.

"Alright, JR this stops right now. Pamela is my wife and you're gonna treat her with respect," Bobby snaps.

"Now, just hang on little brother - JR tries to calm.

"No, you listen. And you can stop that little brother nonsense too, coz that stops from here on in."

"Now, just hold on."

"Oh we'll always be brothers JR. But, if you try to force me to choose, there's not a chance I'd choose you or any family, but my wife. " Bobby turns to Ray. " Are you listening?"

"Yeah, I'm listening," Ray acknowledges..

"Pamela's past was none of my business, she wasn't my wife then - but she is now. And you'd better get used to it."

"Well I don't think...." JR interrupts.

Bobby grabs JR by his collar.

"IT WAS A DUMB STUPID TRICK JR! IF YOU EVER DO IT AGAIN!"

" Bobby he's your brother, please," Pam calms.

"She is my wife JR and it's gonna stay that way."

Bobby and Pam exit the cabin and head off home JR's car. JR and Ray watch on.

"Sorry JR, needed a few more minutes," Ray said.

"It's alright Ray, it's not your fault. It's mine. I underestimated the new Mrs Ewing. Well, I surely won't do that again," JR smugly looks on.

JR has himself a number 1 objective on top of destroying Cliff, driving Bobby's Pam off South Fork for good. But, it won't be easy for a long time to come.



*WINDS OF VENGEANCE, MINI SERIES (DVD SEASON 1). EPISODE 4. *

*BARBECUE, MINI SERIES (DVD SEASON 1). EPISODE 5. *

*THE RED FILE PARTS 1 & 2 SEASON 1 (DVD SEASON 2) EPISODES 22 & 23.*





NO.3. DALLAS TO BE CONTINUED>>>>

 

[cardiff1984]

NO.3. DALLAS CONTINUED....



*A HOUSE DIVIDED,* SEASON 2 (DVD S3). EPISODE 54






No more Mr Nice Guy, temporarily following this 1979-1980 cliff hanger. It's the one that had everyone across the globe on edge. In a single episode, he managed to piss everybody he interacted with and was ultimately threatened with his life by most. Even his brother Bobby, decided enough was enough and both he and Pam would leave Southfork, in favour of Spin Off, Knot's Landing - which is where Lucy's father lives with her mother Valene. JR had not so much as guilt or remorse for his actions, especially where it involves a broken hearted Ellie, who's forced to say goodbye to her youngest son. Cliff and the Cartel are up in arms over JR's corrupt ways, and Sue Ellen, JR's long suffering, makes it's clear in front of Jock and Ellie what she thinks of her heartless husband.

"You drove Gary away and now Bobby. You cheated your friends. You've done everything in your power to get what you want. Well, congratulations JR - you are now the Ewing's only son." - Sue Ellen

This quote was enough to be threatened with her being committed to an asylum, but it's JR's horrid outbursts from the episode, that saw him get three bullets by the conclusion of the season. Question is who dunnit? It could have been anybody ranging from, a small guest character, a re-occurring character or possibly a main character. The plot which created world wide attention was carried on into the following season and after it's fourth episode in Season 3 (dvd s4), it was revealed that it was in fact, Sue Ellen's younger sister, Kristin Shepherd who shot her Brother In Law and former lover.

JR would survive this ordeal, but this would not be the last time he gets shot. Later it would be terrorist BD Calhoun in season 9, then Sue Ellen season 10. And finally, due to Larry Hagman's sad passing, JR was to be killed off screen in the reboot in 2012, in a suicide shooting by his friend, Bum.


*WHO DONE IT?* SEASON 3 ( S4). EPISODE 58



*THE SEARCH.* SEASON 4 (DVD S5) EPISODE 90



Jim Davis aka Jock Ewing



Due to the sad passing of Jim Davis, his character would be written out of the show. Jock would be killed off screen in South America, in a helicopter crash. JR, Bobby and Ray would fly down to the Jungle of the South Americas in search of their strong willed beloved Daddy. During a diving search, Bobby would discover his fathers Medallion necklace and with no sign of the Ewing Patriarch, it was the heart breaking reality that the Ewing family fold dreaded, that Jock is no longer alive. During the episode, showed each Ewing character having flashbacks from earlier episodes, with Jock, sharing warm conversation and heart felt emotions.



*POST NUPTIAL.* SEASON 5 (DVD S6). EPISODE 114.

*THINGS AINT GOIN TO GOOD AT SOUTHFORK.* SEASON 5 (DVD S6) EPISODE 129

*EWING INFERNO.* SEASON 5 (DVD S6) EPISODE 131

*END GAME.* SEASON 6 (DVD S7) EPISODE 161




NO.3 DALLAS TO BE CONCLUDED>>>>>

 

[cardiff1984]

NO.3 DALLAS CONCLUDED



*SWAN SONG.* SEASON 7 (DVD S8). EPISODE 191.




A sad farewell to Bobby......for now.


Patrick Duffy announced that he wanted to try different things, so it came to a decision on how to write Bobby out of the series. It was debated if they should allow Bobby to ride off into the sunset, hoping he would return one day, however it was decided that the show would killed off the beloved Ewing, involving Bobby Ewing Heroics. The episode following the celebration of Bobby's engagement to Jenna Wade, his high school sweetheart. Pam would discover this revelation by newspaper and by a scorned Katherine Wentworth, who had attempted to murder Bobby in a jealous outburst at the end of the previous season. This wouldn't deter her from murder attempt number 2 on her own sister, Pam. Will come to that point of the story shortly. Sue Ellen seeks the help of her previous lover, Dusty Farlow, son of Clayton Farlow, to get over her need to drink. Donna discovers she is pregnant with Ray's baby and he is overjoyed and thinks it's a way to solve their marriage woes. Lucy remarries Mitch and leaves Dallas. Bobby feels distant from Jenna and reminds himself that he's never stopped loving Pam and always will. He goes to Pam's home and the two reconcile as Bobby proposes to her again and see joyously accepts and the two spend the night together, with the murderous Katherine sitting outside in her car. The next morning, Bobby exits the house with Pam, as he is about to head to Southfork to tell Jenna, his decision. As Pam kisses Bobby goodbye, evil Katherine revs her cars engine and hurtles towards Pam in attempt to rid her sister. But Bobby, spots the deadly danger and shoves Pam out harms way, while he takes the full force of Katherine's anger, as he's thrown over the car. Katherine crashes her car into the gardeners pick up truck, instantly ending her life. Bobby lay bleeding and badly injured. The show concludes with the family gathering at Bobby's bedside. Bobby gives his loving goodbyes as he dies. The show now must go, without the beloved Bobby.......but for how long?



*BLAST FROM THE PAST.* SEASON 8 (DVD S9) EPISODE 222.

Look who's back. It was all a figment Of Pam's imagination. She dreamt Bobby's death, including the whole of season 8.




*FALL OF THE HOUSE OF EWING.* SEASON 9 (DVD S10) EPISODE 251



Caught Of Guard - Pamela Barnes Ewing exits in a tragic blaze, 1987.


*THE LADY VANISHES.* SEASON 10 (DVD S11) EPISODE 256.




*THE FAT LADY SINGETH.* SEASON 10 (DVD S11) EPISODE 281

Now, it's Sue Ellen's turn. Like all the others failed to finish the job.



*WEDDING BELL BLUES.* SEASON 11 (DVD S12) EPISODE 297


*CONUNDRUM.* SEASON 13 (DVD 14) EPISODE 356



TNT DALLAS 2013 *JR's MASTERPIECE.* EPISODE 18. SEASON 2




Larry Hagman sadly passed away aged 81 around the time, season 2 of new Dallas was being filmed. To write JR out of the story would be crucial to how the season would play. Even in death, JR would still be too much to handle for his enemies. Passed characters would return to pay tribute to the legend that JR was, including Ray, Lucy, Gary, Mandy Winger and Cally Harper, JR's second wife. However, Cliff Barnes, with a personality transplant and acting more like a Mafia boss, storms the residence and wastes no time in threatening to take down the Ewing's once and for all (he must've forgotten his conversation with Miss Ellie). Following the memorial and the mystery surrounding the death of JR's murder, Bum hands Bobby a document and decides to keep the secret between himself and Bum.

"This is between my brother and me - for now," Bobby tells John Ross and Christopher.

Bobby heads into the bedroom alone and sits with a drink.

"I knew you had one more left up your sleeve JR. And it is a good one. I love you brother," Bobby cries.

 

[cardiff1984]

2. Only Fools And Horses. 1981 - 2003





DURATION OF SERIES: 1981 -2003

NO. SEASONS: 7.

NO.EPISODES: 64 (Including Christmas Specials).


"Lovely Jubbly."

"What a forty two carrot plonker you really are."

"You dip stick, Rodney."

"This time next year, we'll be millionaires." - Del Trotter.


Possibly one of the greatest British comedies ever made. It follows the exploits of Hooky Peckham Market Trader, Derek (Del) Trotter (David Jason and his younger brother Rodney(Nicholas Lyndhurst), who both live in a council estate tower block, known as Nelson Mandela House. Living with them, is there Grandad (Leonard Pearce) and later on in the series, their uncle Albert (Buster Merryfield). They also own a three wheel robin reliant, which is hardly what you call reliable and not road worthy, considering the road tax has been in the post for god knows how long. The story of OFAH was written by John Sullivan and some of the plots he chose were taken from experience and he turned the show into a Gem and has made Only Fools an award winning classic. The combination of David Jason Nick Lyndhurst portraying two brothers was so unique, you'd could not foresee anyone else playing their roles, including the supporting cast with their roles also. Each episode sees the Trotters, facing the challenges of everyday struggles by dreaming of a future, that doesn't seem to come.

Del is the biggest dreamer, hoping that his selling of little quality merchandise and the exploitation of other people's livelihoods, will be the encouragement his business credentials and personal welfare for his family need and he believes that all this could make them millionaires the following year - which Del keeps saying every year. It's his relationship with his younger brother, which can be testing at times, as Del had raised Rodney since their mother, Joan passed away and Del reminds Rodney so often of what their mother said to him on her death bed and it sometimes feels like manipulation from Rodney's point of view, as he feels controlled at times by his elder sibling and is fed up of selling crap down a London market, from a suitcase. However, Rodney on his own would not survive five minutes without the guidance of Del, as he's only got two GSCE's and a suspended sentence after being caught smoking a joint with a Thai hooker. Their Grandfather is the father of Del's runway Dad, whilst Rodney's biological criminal father, died sitting on a detonator back in the sixties. Grandad does not do much, just sits and watches telly - sometimes struggles to find a signal via a microwave oven. Later, on when Grandad passes away (Pearce passed away prior to series 4), Uncle Albert becomes the new resident at the Trotters household and his only helpful at times during crisis advise mostly stems from 'During the war," of which drives the trotters round the bend.

Other supporting characters are Boycie (John Challis), a snobbish car salesman, who looks down on those with a penny less than him as a Pezzente.

Trigger ( Roger Lloyd Pack), is as thick as his twenty year old broom, which has had seventeen new heads and fourteen new handles put on it. And to Trigger, Rodney has an identity crisis, when it comes to naming him. Rodney is Dave in Triggers eyes.

Denzil (Paul Barber), a long distance lorry driving, who can't drive far enough, without Del trying to make him an offer, he would desperately try to refuse, but then give in.

Mike (Kenneth Macdonald) introduced in series 3 as the new landlord of the local pub, 'The Nags Head', is so naïve when it comes to Del promising he will pay the slates he still owes after several years.


When it comes to women, Del subtle approach seems rather suave and appealing to a point. However, Rodney's subtle approach either gets him accused of being a rapist by a local nut, or a slap across the face, trying to replicate his brothers approach. Del over the years has had more wedding engagements, than Trigger has had success trying to find his way out of a telephone box.

By series 6, Rodney would find his soul mate in Cassandra (. Actually it is Cassandra who finds Rodney as they have their coats mixed up. The source to that discovery is Del writing Rodney's name in his jacket. Still, it didn't stop Miss Parry from marrying Rodney Charlton Trotter.

Del would meet the love of his life on a train platform in stage actress Raquel Turner, (Tessa Peak Jones), who suggests that their meet is similar to that of what happens in the movie 'Brief Encounters.' To Del, he thinks she means the movie which stars Richard Dreyfuss which involves UFO's.

There would be extra additions to the Trotter family, firstly introducing Damien Derek Trotter, (Raquel and Del's son) who his Uncle Rodney sees as a falling angel. Then in the final episode, Rodney's daughter would be born as Joan Mavis Trotter.





Leonard Pearce aka Grandad Trotter (series 1-3)






Buster Merryfield as Uncle Albert Trotter




NO.2 ONLY FOOLS AND HORSES TO BE CONTINUED >>>>>

 

[cardiff1984]

2. ONLY FOOLS AND HORSES CONTINUED.....

MY FAVOURITE ONLY FOOLS AND HORSES MOMENTS


​

TRIGGER KEEPS CALLING RODNEY DAVE




Episode 1. "Big Brother." Series 1
"That's how you do business Dave." - Trigger to Rodney



Episode 16. "Homesick." Series 3.







Episode 54. "Three Men, A Woman And A Baby." Series 7.


NAGS HEAD

"You alright Dave?" - Trigger

" Alright Trig. " - Rodney

" Have they though a name for the baby yet?"

" Yeah, well, if it's a girl they calling her Sigourney, after the actress Sigourney Weaver."

"And if it's a boy, they're calling him Rodney."

"Yeah. Who after?"

"............After me Trig."


TRIGGER RETURNS TO THE BAR

"Well?" - Mike

"Well what?" - Trigger

"Have they thought of a name for the baby yet?"

"If it's a girl they name her Sigourney after an actress. And it's a boy they're naming him Rodney - after Dave."



Episode 60. "Time On Our Hands." 1996 Christmas Special. Series 7.


NAGS HEAD

"Lady's and Gentlemen will you please raise your glasses to our future mum and dad Cassandra and Rodney." - Mike

Everyone raises their glasses.

"To Cassandra and Rodney." - Everyone.

"Dave." - Trigger.




NO.2. ONLY FOOLS AND HORSES TO BE CONTINUED>>>>

 

[cardiff1984]

2. ONLY FOOLS AND HORSES CONTINUED.



THE CHANDELIER


Series 2. "A Touch Of Glass." Episode 14.

One Take Smash.


David Jason and Nicholas Lyndhurst were given a clear warning, prior to this epic scene, which inside had them in stitches, but on the outside did not. Before filming this vital scene, the duo were told, it was a one take shot only, as they were dropping a very expensive chandelier. And if they laughed, they could not force a retake, which meant not only had they lost the episode, but also the entire series, which meant, both David and Nicholas would be dismissed. Luckily, the scene remains of the shows greatest and funniest moments. It took a lot of will, not lose their heads, especially since Sullivan the creator stuffed a hanky in his mouth to stop himself from going in hysterical laughter.



SCENE FROM 'A TOUCH OF GLASS.'

Del, Rodney and Grandad have been given the task of polishing expensive chandeliers. however, it's undoing them and not causing damage to them that's the issue. Grandad lifts up the floorboard and finds the nut that's keeping the Chandelier in place, whilst Del and Rodney prepare to catch it with a blanket.

"I found it Del." -Grandad

"See he found the nut told you we can trust him." - Del to Rodney.

"Starting to undo it." - Grandad.

"Ye- NO!! - Del and Rodney together.

"Gordon Bennet we ain't even up the ladders yet!" - Del

"Grandad don't you touch nothing, 'til we tell you." - Rodney

Del and Rodney ascend the ladder with the blanket.

"You alright Rodney, anything you want?" - Del

"Yeah, I wanna go home. This ladders not too safe."

"Ladders alright. This is the chance I've been waiting for. Don't let me down Rodney, now don't let me down."

Del and Rodney open up the blanket underneath the Chandelier.

"Alright Grandad we're ready. Start undoing it now." - Del


Grandad starts undoing the nut.

"It's coming Del Boy." Grandad shouts. "One More turn Del.

"Brace yourself Rodney. Brace yourself." - Del


Grandad hammers the nut. Unfortunately Grandad has undone the wrong Chandelier on the opposite side of the room to Del and Rodney and it hits the floor and smashes into thousands of smithereens. Del and Rodney pause in shock and look at the damage that's been caused.

"He was undoing the other Chandelier." - Del

"How can he tell?" - Rodney

Del and Rodney descend the ladder and make their way over to the broken Chandelier. Grandad comes down the staircase with a smile on his face.

"Alright Del Boy?" - Grandad.

"Alright? What do you mean alright look at it." - Del

"Did you drop it Del?"

"Drop it? How could we drop it? We wasn't even holding it. We was working on that one." - Rodney.

" I wish you said something - I was working on this one. Is it very valuable Del?"

"No not really. It was bloody priceless when it was hanging up there though!" - Del

"What's his lordship gonna say, when he finds out?" - Rodney

"Well, I think I can safely say, that my invitation to the hump ball has gone for a burton." - Del.



NO.2. ONLY FOOLS AND HORSES TO BE CONTINUED>>>>>

 

[cardiff1984]

NO.2. ONLY FOOLS AND HORSES CONTINUED.


FALLING THROUGH THE BAR.


Series 6. "YUPPY LOVE." Episode 41.


Del wants to keep up his Yuppy image and pretends he's someone he's not. Doing so he goes to the expensive wine bars and bistros in attempt to impress classy women, with his false business credentials. This next time, it's absolutely goes tits up and it's doesn't help when Trigger's associating with, especially one who's been banned from the Peckham local, for stealing a pork pie.



WINE BAR.

Del and Trigger are in next to the bar, whilst discussing what certain women want in a man.

"You see nowadays, these modern Euro birds, they go for, the more mature men, that have made it in life." Del.

"Yeah - is that why we're 'aving no luck?" - Trigger.

"No, no,no, just haven't started yet. Just, building myself up to it."

"Better hurry up, it'll be closing time soon."

"Alright, alright."

Del then spots an attractive woman sitting at a table, giving Del a stern look. Del though thinks he's in with a chance.







"I think we're on a winner e're Trigg. Play it Nice and cool, nice and cool you know what I mean?" - Del




THUMP!!

Del's Yuppy image takes a fall, as he doesn't realize the barman has lifted the bar hatch up, following being too preoccupied . Trigger then discovers Del has vanished and is somewhat perplexed. Del gets to his feet, caught off guard and stumbles. Trigger jumps back by his friends re-appearance. Del grabs his belongings as he begins to feel fatigued and ultimately embarrassed.

"Drink up Trig - drink up, we're leaving." - Del

"Aren't you gonna try for them birds?" - Trigger

"No, you're cramping my style mate, you're cramping my style."

Del and Trigger head out of the bar.




NO.2. ONLY FOOLS AND HORSES TO BE CONTNUED >>>>>

 

[cardiff1984]

NO.2 ONLY FOOLS AND HORSES CONTINUED



Series 6. "THE UNLUCKY WINNER IS............." Episode 44.




RODNEY IS 26 GOING ON 14.




Rodney enters an art competition through a cereal box ad and wins a holiday for two and intends to take Cassandra with him, although Del manages to wangle his way, not telling his younger brother the true details of the competition. Upon arriving in Spain, Del tells his sibling that the competition was for under 15's and that Rodney has to portray 14 year old and act like one, while Cassandra plays his step mother and Del his father. The whole ordeal is humiliating for Rodney as a teenage girl called Trudy has a crush on Rodney and is a Bros fan. During the holiday, Del and Rodney enter the lottery draw and think they have won, but due to Rodney's age, they can't claim the winnings. However, Rodney thinks they can claim it, by showing his age on one of his identity cards. Rodney is left dumfounded to learn Del has altered his date of birth.


Series 7. "STAGE FRIGHT." Episode 51.


CWYING.




Del hopes he can get Raquel whilst pregnant, back into show business and will manage her and a singer called Tony at the Starlight Rooms. When it comes to the pivotal night, things dare not go wrong, considering the owner of the club is a gangster and the act is part of the owners mother's birthday celebrations. The act starts and Raquel starts to sing 'Crying' by Roy Orbison. It seems to be going well until Tony comes on and reveals to have a speech impediment when pronouncing his 'R's. Instead of Crying it's 'Cwying.' Fearing for a pasting, the owner and his mother actually liked the act. Del suggest to Tony, who scurries in a hurry from Nelson Mandela, that it will make them "Wich."



Series 7. "THREE MEN, A WOMAN AND A BABY." Episode 54.


DEL INTRODUCES DAMIAN TO HIS LATE MOTHER.


The labour scene with Raquel and Del was hilarious, with Raquel in severe agony, demanding, "Don't you ever come near me again Trotter!" A male nurse losing his tope between Raquel's legs and Del confusing it for his soon to be sons full head of hair. The after birth, sees Rodney immediately fear the birth of the Omen Trotter, his nephew, Damien Derek Trotter. The episode concluded with a heart warming speech to his deceased mother on a starry night, whilst holding his son. Del tells his son, that he is such a lucky boy and that himself was born for this moment and promises he will do his best for his son. Del insists that next year they will be millionaires.



SERIES 7. "MIAMI TWICE, OH TO BE ENGLAND." Episode 56.


DOPPELGANGER DEL






What are the chances of going on holiday and discovering you are to be about to be bumped off, by a Mafia family, who's Patriarch father is identical to the visitor? That's exactly what happens when Del and Rodney end up in Miami Florida. It seems bad enough, that their accommodation is that of a camper and that most of the locals mistake them for Australians, but to eventually be lured into the devils lair, in attempt to make the locals believe a mafia boss is assassinated is quite chilling. Don O' Chetti, is Del's doppelganger, who is awaiting trial, for murder, kidnapping, Trafficking and kidnap. The criminal is under house arrest and Rico, his son thinks Del is the answer to their prayers. The failed attempts are hilarious, especially the second one, where Rico malfunctions the steering wheel on a Jet Ski and sends Del thousands of miles away into the Ocean. Unfortunately, Del is brought back to Miami. The following morning, Rodney ruffs up the Don, thinking it's Del, as Rodney discovers Del conned his way into the holiday. This action, eventually sees the brothers discover the whole charade and they make their escape into the everglades, where they meet a hungry Croc and coincidently bump into Boycie and Marlene. Del and Rodney eventually make it home to the UK, where Del has new worries.



NO.2. ONLY FOOLS AND HORSES TO BE CONCLUDED>>>>>>

 

[cardiff1984]

NO.2. ONLY FOOLS AND HORSES CONCLUDED>>>



Series 7. 1996 CHRISTMAS SPECIAL 1. "HEROES AND VILLAINS."



TRIGGERS BROOM.






Trigger for his care of the community, has honoured him with a medal, by councillor Murray, who was impressed to discover he maintained the same broom for twenty years....but there's a catch.


SIDS CAFE

"So what exactly is the award for?" - Rodney

"Saving the council money. I happen to mention to her, that I've had the same broom for twenty years. Was impressed and deserved a medal. Twenty years. It's a long time Dave." - Trigger.

"Yeah, well, it's two decades."

"I wouldn't go that far -"

"Just a minute Trig, if you've had that broom for twenty years, have you actually swept any roads with it?" - Del.

"Course, but I look after it well. There's an old saying passed down to the generation of road sweepers. Look after your broom." - Trigger.

"And your broom will look after you." - Rodney

"No Dave, it's look after your broom."

Del and Rodney look at each other, much to saying WTF?

"Oh, that old saying."

"Yeah and I've maintained it for twenty years."

Trigger picks up his broom.

"This old broom, has had seventeen new heads and fourteen new handles put on it."

Everyone is perplexed by Triggers statement.

"So how the 'ell can it be the same bloody broom then?" - Sid.

"Well, here's a picture of it, what more proof do you need?"





BATMAN DEL AND ROD ROBIN




On their way to an apparent fancy dress party, Del and Rodney in their Dynamic Duo disguise, unintentionally prevent a mugging of the local councillor and crash the wake of a friend. But, Trigger lightens the mood again by telling Rodney, "You're alright, but Del don't look nothing like Tonto."




Series 7. Christmas 1996 Special 3. "Time On Our Hands."


FINALLY MILLIONAIRES.


Del's father In Law discovers a pocket watch in Del's garage, which is entitled 'Harrison,' a heirloom that's been missing for three hundred years. The trotter brothers take it to Sutherland, where they don't expect a priceless off, little do they know, that this time in a few moments they will be millionaires. The auctioneer introduces the time piece to the potential buyers and shocks Del and Rodney, by starting the bidding at £150,000. Del faints at this point. Outside the auction room, Del recovers and Rodney informs him the bidding is still going on and they rush back in to see the outcome.

"The bid is in the room. Three and a half" - Auctioneer.

"Three hundred and fifty thousand quid." - Del

"Three and three quarters - Four thank you. The bid stands at four - million pounds."

Rodney passes out in shock.

The final out come is that of £6.2, 000,000


They are finally millionaires.........if for a little while.



Only Fools and Horses later on did make a three part prequel, called "Rock And Chips," which focused on Joan Trotter (Del and Rodney's mum) of which saw a 16 year old Del and Rodney as a baby.



Before I unveil my No.1 Favourite TV show Of All Time, there will be some Honourable Mentions.

 

[cardiff1984]

Honourable Mentions.






​

Gavin and Stacey. 2007 -2009. 2019.








Rock And Chips. 2010 - 11








The Widower. 2014 (UK Drama)





Treasure Hunt. 1982 -89






Inspector Gadget. 1983 -86






Jimbo And The Jet Set. 1986 - 87.









NEXT, MY NO.1 FAVOURITE TV SHOW OF ALL TIME>>>>

 

[cardiff1984]

1. The Incredible Hulk. 1977 - 1982.





DURATION OF SERIES: 1977 -1982

NO. SEASONS: 5

NO. EPISODES: 82



"Mr Mcgee, don't make me angry. You wouldn't like me when I'm angry." - David Banner.


"Doctor David Banner. Physician - Scientist. Searching for a way to tap into the hidden strengths, that all humans have. Then an accidental overdose of Gamma Radiation, alters his bodies chemistry. And now, when David Banner grows angry or outraged a startling Metamorphosis occurs. The creature is driven by rage. And pursued by an investigative reporter. The creature is wanted for a murder he didn't commit. David Banner is believed to be dead - and he must let the World think that he is dead, until he can find a way to control the raging spirit, that dwells within him." - Ted Cassidy/ Opening Narration.


Have never grown out of this show and probably never will. Since the age of five, when it was repeated on ITV in the late eighties, I have been hooked to Kenneth Johnson's masterpiece in depicting a superhero show, set outside it's Comic Book routes, but to place the setting in the real world within the fictional tale it told. When it went off air, I was eager for it to return. It did in the form of the three post series tv movies, which were watchable.

It was season 3, I remember being televised on ITV in late 1989 and its' repeats were cancelled in early 1990. I wouldn't see an episode until the mid nineties, which was a season 2 episode, "The Confession., shown on sci fi at mid night. " I would then see the series on a more regular from 1998 to 2000, when it was repeated on channel 5 on the weekends mornings and on Sci Fi.



PREMISE.

The series begins telling the story of Physician Doctor, David Bruce Banner (Bill Bixby) , a widower, who lost his wife Laura in a tragic car accident. His attempts to save his wife, by trying to lift the overturned car she was trapped in, failed and during an eleven month period after her passing, David and his colleague and friend, Elaina Marks (Susan Sullivan), attempt to find the secrets behind the hidden strength that humans have. Certain people have had the heroic willpower, that David attempted and succeeded, where he didn't. It's a frustrating experiment, until David discovers that Gamma Radiation could be the key and decides to experiment on himself, using Gamma Ray machinery, which would change his destiny for the foreseeable future. He increases Gamma Units to full power and exposes himself for a certain amount of time, but Unbeknown to him, something is not right about the whole procedure.




David Banner taking an accidental overdose of Gamma Radiation. - Pilot.



Once it's complete, David's strength has not strengthened at all and it frustrates him. It gets to the point where he is driving home in a thunder storm and blows a tyre. His attempts to change the tyre, makes him even more irate and he smashes his hand into the pavement, when he ultimately begins to feel the affects of the Gamma exposure and he morphs into a Green, Raging, Seven foot plus, monster - The Incredible Hulk played by Lou Ferrigno. During the Hulks outburst of rage, anger and destruction, Banner is completely unaware of his alter egos menacing acts - like being unconscious. David with the help of Elaina, put the experiment of the Hulk to the test and what makes it tick and they conclude that it plays off David's emotions and appears, when Banner is frustrated or extremely angry. Banners first outburst, grabs the attention of National Register Reporter, Jack Mcgee (Jack Colvin), who is intent on getting to the bottom of the matter. Mcgee sneaks into the laboratory, where Banner and Marks catch him off guard. Unbeknown, to them all, Mcgee has knocked over a flammable substance and leaks. David takes him outside, where he delivers his iconic line. Suddenly, there is an almighty explosion and Elaina is trapped. David in desperation morphs into the Hulk and he pulls Elaina out of the inferno and carries her into the woods where she passes away. Jack Mcgee believes David Banner to be dead and comes to the conclusion the Hulk, had murdered Banner and Elaina. Mcgee is determined to hunt the Hulk, so he can get the break he wants in his career. For, David Banner, he must let the World think he's dead, until he finds a cure for his Hulk Outs. By doing this, he must go on the run, from town to town, city to city, State to State until he completes his mission. If he intend to complete that mission alone, he has to avoid Mcgee and.....his Anger.





Mcgee given a major warning from Banner - "Pilot."




NO.1 THE INCREDIBLE HULK TO BE CONTINUED >>>>>>

 

[cardiff1984]

NO. 1 THE INCREDIBLE HULK CONTINUED.






Behind the scenes - Bill Bixby, Kenneth Johnson and Lou Ferrigno.



Following the pilot episode, came the second pilot movie, "Return Of The Incredible Hulk," episode titled, "Death In The Family." The show then went on to do five seasons and in total 82 episodes and followed, the sad journey of David Banner, walking a continuous lonely road, trying to find a cure for the raging spirit, that stalks him inside. For the entirety of the series, David would go across the America and do odd jobs to make ends meat and in need to save some for his attempts at a cure. During, his odyssey, each episode would have a mixed anthology and gripping tales. Banner would meet interesting characters and get involved with their problems. The issues involved would see David inadvertently turn into the Hulk, as he good natured spirit to help, would push him to the limit, when provoked or assaulted by its antagonists. Sometimes David would Metamorphosis due accidents or just frustration. David would Hulk out, at least twice an episode. The issues for each episode are mostly resolved, but due to David Hulk outs and sightings in a certain area, he would have to move on again. The Ending Titles of each episode, would be that of a Piano Melody called, The Lonely Man,' Theme, depicting the sad journey that David Banner is in trying to stop the monster inside him, that continues to make him run and be completely alone.

David being forced to run, isn't helped, by Jack Mcgee's profuse efforts to hunt him (Mcgee from Season 2 thinks Banner is alias John Doe), and the Hulk. Mcgee can be annoying at times and is considered to work for one of the worst news papers around, The National Register.' Every time he hears of a Hulk sighting, he's straight on the case, which irritates his co - workers and bosses, who insist the Hulk is a myth or hoax and that Mcgee's success, will not be something that is believed to them, a figment of his imagination. Mcgee does have many run in's with the Hulk, and some where he is rescued or intimidated. Jack does meet Banner on certain occasions, but it's where David's face is covered in Bandages, or wearing Mask or in a hidden space, so David does not reveal he is alive. Wherever David and the Hulk runs, be sure Jack Mcgee will follow.




Jack Colvin as Jack Mcgee. (Episode 'Proof Positive,' Season 3).



I have wanted to own the entire series since I was five years old and it's not until thirty years later, that I now own the entire box set on DVD. Kenneth Johnson insisted on creating the Hulk, outside of it's Comic Book routes and wanting to give it a different direction and set it in the real world and make the show into a more Drama, where not just kids will tune in, but Adult audiences. It's changes was a masterpiece from Kenneth, who compromised the changes with Hulk creator Stan Lee. Kenneth wanted the Hulk to be red, as red in rage. However, Ken reluctantly agreed with Stan, that the Hulk should remain green. They also changed Banners name, from Bruce to David, as Bruce sounded to Gay, but also Ken wanted to get as far away from it's Comic Book routes as possible. The characters full name would be 'David Bruce Banner.'

Bill Bixby was a perfect choice as the Protagonist Doctor. The show in my opinion, ran solidly through his presentation and coming off as a convincing warm character, who I felt sadly for during the show, who's emotions and angst were touched throughout. Bixby was probably the best actor for the job.

Arnold Schwarzenegger was approached to play the Hulk, but he was on another project and he suggested his Muscle buddy Lou Ferrigno. Richard Kiel (Jaws from Jame Bond), did have shots taken of him as the Hulk in zoomed out scenes during the 'pilot,' but it decided for the entirety of the series that Lou Ferrigno should be the Hulk and that was helped by a decision from Ken's daughter, who put a picture of Kiel and Ferrigno in front of her and she pointed out Ferrigno. Rich had the height, but not the bulk and Lou had the Bulk, but not the height, even though he was seven foot plus. However, Lou was chosen and throughout, it would take up to four hours each day to apply the imagination of the jolly green giant. He would also have to wear contact lenses, that would hurt from time to time. Kenneth insisted the Hulk would not talk, as it would sound ridiculous and just had the growls done.

Jack Colvin was chosen to play Jack Mcgee who would not leave David or the Hulk alone.


The Hulk was highly rated in the late seventies and early eighties and would have considerably high ratings and showed no signs of failing. However, by 1982, CBS abruptly cancelled it, half way through season five, with no warning. It was a shocker, considering the Hulk, was doing Farley well in the ratings and it annoyed Kenneth. Kenneth intended to write an episode involving David's sister, who needs a blood transfusion and the kind selfless act from David, sees Helen Banner turn into the 'She Hulk,; which would have spawned a spin off. Then there would have been the Incredible Hulk Series Finale, that Ken intended to write, where David finds closure in his attempts to free himself from the Hulk and Mcgee's story, but CBS finished the series before this could happen.


Three post TV series movies 'The Incredible Hulk Returns 1988,' Trial Of The Incredible Hulk 1989,' and 'The Death Of The Incredible Hulk 1990,' concluded the story.

A another TV movie, 'Revenge Of The Incredible Hulk,' was in the works, but sadly, Bix Bixby died from cancer in 1993.




Eric Kramer (Thor), Stan Lee, Lou Ferrigno (Hulk) - Behind scenes of 'The Incredible Hulk Returns,' 1988.





NO.1. THE INCREDIBLE HULK TO BE CONTINUED>>>>>>>

 

[cardiff1984]

NO.1 THE INCREDIBLE HULK CONTINUED

SEASON ONE EPISODE LIST AND *FAVOURITE EPISODES.*

​

1. *PILOT.*




David Banners first Metamorphosis into the Hulk - Pilot.

Doctor David Banner is searching for a way to tap into the hidden strengths that all humans have following the death of his wife. He experiments on himself with Gamma Radiation with seems to fail, however in a moment of anger and outrage, he morphs into a green seven foot giant. His colleague and himself decide to investigate the creature, that's dwells within him and agree they must find safer quarters, due to the dangers the Hulk poses. However, a reporter named Jack Mcgee is onto the case of the Hulk sightings and spies on th two scientists. He inadvertently causes an explosion at the lab and it kills Elaina, making Jack Mcgee believe the Hulk had murdered her and David Banner himself. David Banner now, with his friend deceased and a monster inside him, must now let the world think that he's and go on the run, to search for a cure, whilst avoided Mcgee on the way.


2. *RETURN OF THE INCREDIBLE HULK. "Death In The family.".* (2nd pilot movie).

David and his alter ego must protect an heiress from her evil step mother and doctor, who intend to kill her for her fortune, whilst making her believe she is crippled, which she's not.



Protecting the Heiress.





3. Final Round.



4. *THE BEAST WITHIN.*



"Malone Stop! For God's sakes! Don't do it!" - Banner.


David becomes a handyman at a zoo, where he meets a female doctor, who studies the emotions of animals and one particular is a Gorilla. During, the studies, it appears some animals are dying in her care, but what is going on behind closed doors, is the smuggling of animals and the exchange of half million dollars given, used from stolen diamonds.



5. *OF GUILT MODELS AND MURDER.*




Hulk Flexing his muscle - Of Guilt Models Model's And Murder.


The Hulk is accused with the murder of a beautiful rich model in her home. Banner takes it upon himself to infiltrate the home of the deceased, by posing as the new residence assistant, employed by her boyfriend. What David discovers, is that, the Hulk was the perfect frame, by his new employer and lover.



6. Terror On Times Square.



7. 747.



David needs the help of his angry friend to land a jet. - 747.


Whilst on a flight to Chicago to see a Doctor, David stumbles upon a plot by a Co-pilot and his girlfriend stewardess, to steal an Egyptian artefact on its way to a museum. The stewardess drugs the captain and other pilot, but the Co- pilot attempting to keep David quiet, is accidently knocked out, after David Hulks out and it's left up to David to fly solo and land the Plane. But can he do it, without getting angry?



8. The Hulk Breaks Las Vegas.

9. Never Give A Trucker An Even Break.

10. Life And Death.

11. Earthquakes Happen.

12. The Waterfront Story.



NO.1 THE INCREDIBLE HULK TO BE CONTINUED >>>>>