The Frighteners: The Minder (ITV 7 Jul 1972, with Tom Bell)

In The Minder, the opening episode of The Frighteners, Cyril, a major a villain, in hospital with a broken leg, is rescued by some of his gang. He has heard rumours of Porter, one of his top men, “bad mouthing” him whilst he has been inside. He wants him brought to him but Bender, one of the men who “rescued” him doesn’t seem keen to do so.

What Cyril doesn’t know is (and we find out through flashbacks) that Porter has already more or less taken over the gang and wants Bender to kill Cyril.

It’s quite a slight story but the cast is fabulous with Tom Bell, Warren Clarke and Brian Glover all taking prominent roles. Kenneth J Warren, Tom Bell and Warren Clarke.

production details
UK / ITV – London Weekend Television / 1×25 minute episode / Broadcast 7 July 1972

Writer: Eric Coltart / Production Design: Eric Shedden / Director: James Goddard

Series: The Frighteners Episode 1 (of 13)

cast
Tom Bell as Bender
Kenneth J. Warren as Cyril
Warren Clarke as Ronnie
Maurice Bush as Tosca
Derek Martin as Henry
Nick Hobbs as Peebles
Brian Glover as Porter