Special Branch: The Kazmirov Affair (ITV 15 Oct 1969, with Ray Smith)

More Russian espionage action is at the heart of The Kazmirov Affair. The story centres around a novel that has been written by well known Soviet author Kazmirov. Jordan becomes convinced that the KGB have added a fake chapter into the book in a bid to discredit the writer.

Jordan thinks professor Peter Brovnik may be involved and that there is way more to the book than meets the eye. However when Jordan’s investigations result in an official complaint the case is shut down.

The fabulous Ray Smith pops up as Detective Chief Inspector Jeffries, working with Jordan on the case. Ros Drinkwater, who would very soon go on to a starring role as Steve in the BBC classic crime drama Paul Temple.

RELATED:   ITV Secures "Welcome to Chippendales" and "Culprits" for Free-to-Air Release

This was another topical story as the plight of Russian writers being targeted as dissidents was very much in the news at the time. It was also another example of how things don’t go Special Branch’s way all of the time,

production details
UK / ITV – Thames / 1×50 minute episode / Broadcast Wednesday 15 October 1969 at 9.00pm

Writer: Emanuel Litvinoff / Production Design: Fred Pusey / Director: Mike Vardy

Series: Special Branch Season 1 Episode 4

cast
Derren Nesbitt as Jordan
Wensley Pithey as Eden
Keith Washington as Morrissey
Ray Smith as Detective Chief Inspector Jeffries
Athene Fielding as Mabel
Edward Burnham as Professor Crowther
John Bailey as Peter Brovnik
Jane Hilary as Secretary
Gerald Sim as Douglas Lifford
Patricia Lawrence as Elena Brovnik
Ros Drinkwater as Detective Constable Janet Sims
John Cobner as Detective Constable Brewer
David Garth as Deputy Commander

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.