Bergerac: Return of the Ice Maiden (BBC-1 8 Nov 1985, with Liza Goddard)

In Return of the Ice Maiden Jim has his hands full; Mary Lou Costain is something of a major villain – she is believed to be behind a plot to buy stolen currency plates from the Dutch mint Jim also believes she was responsible for the death of one his contacts, Sammy Leach.

To give him further trouble Diamond Thief Philippa Vale is also back on the island. Vale is back to retrieve the diamonds she stashed on her last visit but finds her plans changed when she runs into Costain who wants her to steal the currency plates from the Bureau.

Vale’s teaming up with Costain is actually part of a plot between Jim and her to bring Costain down.

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Another entertaining Philippa Vale episode, a good mix of action and humour. Liza Goddard is excellent as the flirtatious diamond thief. She clearly greatly enjoys giving Jim the runaround. The fabulous Elizabeth Spriggs also makes a strong guest appearance as the tough Mary Lou Costain.

Elizabeth Spriggs as Mary Lou Costain, a woman who needs bringing down as far as Jim is concerned.

classic quote
“yes I thought you were soft on her last time she was here.”

production details
UK / BBC One / 1×50 minute episodes / Broadcast 8 November 1985 at 9.25pm

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Writer: Rod Beacham / Production Design: Marjorie Pratt / Director: Michael Custance

Series: Bergerac Season 4 Episode 5

cast
John Nettles as Jim Bergerac
Terence Alexander as Charles Hungerford
Sean Arnold as Crozier
Nancy Mansfield as Peggy Masters
Liza Goddard as Philippa Vale
Mela White as Diamante Lil
Elizabeth Spriggs as Mary Lou Costain
Terry John as Det Con Paris
Geoffrey Leesley as Det Con Wilson
Philip Manikum as Sgt Murray
Philip Hynd as Liddell
Peter Jonfield as Van Rijn
Jenny Bolt as Midge
Colin Edwynn as Tourist
Ian Marter as Cowman
John Baker as Butler
Sarah Kenyon as Waitress

Alastair James is the editor in chief for Memorable TV. He has been involved in media since his university days. Alastair is passionate about television, and some of his favourite shows include Line of Duty, Luther and Traitors. He is always on the lookout for hot new shows, and is always keen to share his knowledge with others.