The Old Men At The Zoo: A Tall Story (BBC-2 15 Sep 1983 with Jan Harvey)

UK / BBC-2 / 1×60 minute episode / Broadcast 15 September 1983

Series: The Old Men at the Zoo / Episode One

“You may not be aware of it Carter but during the great land slump of 1984 I bought up most of Wales, I don’t mean the smelly bits with the people in it.”

In the near future, American Simon Carter arrives to take up his new position at London Zoo, things are in Chaos following the accidental death of a keeper. Meanwhile Britain is on the verge of a nuclear war with the major Arabian oil producers. The board and curators of the Zoo are keen to see a move take place but they may not have time.

A confusing and noisy opening ten minutes gives way to a brilliant piece of television, stunning script from Sweeney writer Troy Kennedy Martin and some strong performances from a mainly older cast. Right from the opening too the portents are there.

guest cast
RICHARD WORDSWORTH as Matthew Price
SHELAGH FRASER as Diana Price
JAN HARVEY as Harriet Leacock
BARRY STANTON as Strawson
PRISCILLA MORGAN as Mrs Purrett
JACQUIE CASSIDY as Maryon
JOHN BARRARD as Old Filson
PEGGYANN CLIFFORD as Mrs Filson
JILL MEAGHER, MADHAV SHARMA as Newscasters
CHRISTOPHER OWEN as Interviewer at Heliport
DEIDRE LEE as Kay
KILIAN McKENNA as Gate-Keeper
TIM FAULKNER as Merton
HELEN DUVALL as Receptionist
PAMELA DALE as Doris
KIPPER ELLIS as Violet Carter
ALAN RENTON as Reggie Carter