Air Date: Sunday 20 April 1975
Series: The Brothers – Season 5, Episode 3
Network: BBC One
Running Time: 50 minutes
Writer: Eric Paice
Director: Lennie Mayne
Production Design: Gavin Davies
Overview
Aired on BBC One on April 20, 1975, Tiger By The Tail is an episode from the fifth season of The Brothers. The narrative focuses on the ambitious Paul Merroney, whose plans for Hammond Transport are causing ripples, and Brian Hammond, who is grappling with significant personal issues.
Plot Summary
Paul Merroney begins to assert his influence at Hammond Transport with substantial proposals to reorganize the entire system. His ideas include relocating the offices and overhauling the company’s operational structure. Unsurprisingly, Ted Hammond and other board members are not enthusiastic about these sweeping changes. Merroney also demonstrates his assertive approach by acquiring the printing company adjacent to Hammond’s premises, securing crucial street frontage for potential expansion.
Meanwhile, Brian Hammond feels overwhelmed and out of his depth as life’s pressures mount. He is currently seeing a psychiatrist, Dr Gloster, who recommends hospitalization for specialist treatment. However, Brian is resistant to this suggestion, choosing to face his struggles without that level of intervention for now. His personal turmoil forms a significant part of the episode’s focus.
Guest Cast
- CAROLE MOWLAM as Clare Miller
- RONALD LEIGH-HUNT as Dr Gloster
Behind the Scenes
Written by Eric Paice, a key contributor to The Brothers, this episode continues to explore the evolving dynamics within the Hammond family and their business. Lennie Mayne, an experienced television director, helmed this particular story, ensuring the conflicts and business strategies were effectively conveyed. The storyline highlights the introduction of Paul Merroney as a significant force for change, often putting him at odds with the established ways of the Hammond brothers.
Why This Episode Stands Out
- It prominently features Paul Merroney‘s strategic moves to reshape Hammond Transport, creating conflict and tension.
- Brian Hammond‘s deteriorating mental state and his interactions with a psychiatrist provide a strong, emotional subplot.
- The episode illustrates the contrast between Merroney’s aggressive business tactics and the more traditional, often resistant, approach of the Hammond family.
- The acquisition of the neighbouring printing company is a clear demonstration of Merroney’s ambition and foresight.
Watch and Rediscover
Tiger By The Tail shows The Brothers‘ ability to balance boardroom machinations with personal crises. The character of Paul Merroney acts as a catalyst for much of the drama, pushing the company and the family in new directions. This episode is a good example of the shifting power dynamics and evolving character arcs that defined the series’ later seasons.
