Madson (BBC-1 1996, Ian McShane, Joanna Kanska)

Crime drama series following John Madson (Ian McShane), who sentenced on forged evidence to life imprisonment, gains a law degree in prison and successfully overturns his conviction. Suddenly freed again after eight years inside he uses his contacts to secure a position as an outdoor clerk with a top firm of City Solicitors.

Each episode shows the inefficiencies of the law, solves a new crime or helps those whom the law has neglected.

Filming took place in West London between 23 August and 29th November 1995. Ian McShane came up with the idea himself and Ian Kennedy Martin and Colin Shindler wrote the scripts. It was a strong series with McShane at his best.

There were strong supporting roles for Joanna Kanska as Magda Ostowska who believes in Madson and helps get his start in the legal profession as well as Jayne Ashbourne as Madson’s daughter in law Sarah. Madson’s son died from a heroin overdose just as Madson was released from prison. Madson and Sarah moved in together and there was something of a mutual need between the two of them.

Cast: Ian McShane as John Madson; Joanna Kanska as Magda Ostrowska; Matthew Marsh as Detective Inspector Rourke; Jayne Ashbourne as Sarah Madson; Thomas Craig as Gordon Berry; Charles Gray as Sir Ranald Hearnley; Kate Beckett as Cheryl Berry;
David Arlen as Donald; Colum Convey as Detective Inspector Aston

Creator: Ian McShane / Writers: Ian Kennedy Martin, Colin Shindler / Production Designer: Steve Keogh / Costume Designer: Dorinda Rea / Producer: Colin Shindler / Executive Producers: Barbara Emile, Ian McShane / Director: Rob Walker

UK / BBC One – McShane Productions / 6×50 minute episodes / Broadcast 17 April – 22 May 1996