Episode #1 - 1-1

The Talented Husband

CAST:
Derek Farr - John Clarron
Shirley Eaton - Adrienne Halberd
Patricia Roc - Madge Clarron
George Roderick - Mario
Donald Churchill - Dr. Sprague
Norman Mitchell - Mr. Smith
John Kelland - Gilbert
Howard Douglas - Ticket Collector
Clemence Bettany - Chemist

Directed by Michael Truman; Screenplay by Jack Sanders (pseudonym of Harry W. Junkin(pdf Screenplay on network DVD) 

STORY:
Wealthy Madge Clarron has an accident and is bound to stay in bed. Her husband, unsuccessful Actor/Producer John Clarron, sees after her. Clarron hires housekeeper Mrs. Jefferty.
Simon Templar investigates since the two former Mrs. Clarrons all died in accidents. Insurance investigator Adrienne Halberd assists.

NOTES:
* According to the audio commentary by Robert S. Baker on the Umbrella DVD this episode was actually written by Harry W. Junkin under the "Jack Sanders" pseudonym.
* This is not only the first episode shown on TV but also the first one written & shot. (audio commentary)
* Photographer Frank Herrmann was invited to Elstree Studios in Borehamwood to capture the production of the first episode. You can find two photos - Roger Moore in front of his dressing room and in the Volvo, plus a contact sheet of all photos that offers a fascinating insight into the production here on the website of Pap Art. It's also possible (but expensive) to buy prints.
* Shirley Eaton also appears in Episodes #9 "The Effete Angler" and #100 "Invitation to Danger"
* Shirley Eaton is the golden girl from "Goldfinger"
* John Kelland also appears in Episode #23 "The Saint Plays with Fire"
* Howard Douglas also appears in Episode #29 "The Noble Sportsman"
When John Clarron walks over to Adrienne's house the first time she seems to notice him although he's in her back. Seems like Clarron's greeting was forgotten to be edited in (0:07).
In the scene when John Clarron visits Adrienne before his departure to London: Look closely at the Clarron's house, when Simon and Clarron leave. It's clearly to see that it's just a painting (0:25).
The shot of the incoming train was used twice. Look out for the train driver (0:26 and 0:32).
You can see the shadow of the boom microphone moving above the actors (0:44).
It's not actress Patricia Roc (Madge) who is led up the stairs by Shirley Eaton but a stand-in (0:47).
* Commentary with Sir Roger Moore, Robert S. Baker & Johnny Goodman on the Umbrella DVD
* Commentary with Robert S. Baker, Johnny Goodman and Ken Baker on the network DVD

AIRDATE:
UK: 30th September 1962 (ITV), 4th October 1962 (ATV)

GERMAN TITLE:
S.T. trifft eine alte Freundin

AVAILABLE ON:
* VHS (PAL): ITC 1038 (1991)
* DVD (PAL): Carlton 37115 00813 (2000)
* DVD (PAL): Umbrella DAVID0246 (2003)
* DVD (PAL): network 7952455a (2006)

THE SAINT
www.simontemplar.de

Last Updated: 09/30/2022