Dial M For Murder (BBC-1 1974, Ian Hendry, Ray McAnally)

Anthology series Dial M For Murder told stories where murderous intent was the focus. The linking device was that a phone featured in some way to set up the story.

Storylines focused on straight forward blackmail, nuisance phone calls, professional hit men and espionage.

The writers involved included Roy Clarke, P.J.Hammond, Richard Harris and James Andrew Hall whilst directors included Peter Graham Scott, Gerald Blake and Ken Hughes.

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The casts lined up for the episodes were pretty high profile and included Ian Hendry, Elaine Stritch, Lee Montague, George Baker, William Gaunt, Ray McAnally, John Gregson, Ronald Hines, Charles Gray and Patrick MacNee.

Robert Lang and Ian Hendry as a pair of hit men in the second story Contract.

production details
UK / BBC One / 13×50 minute episodes / Broadcast 20 May – 19 August 1974

Producer: Jordan Lawrence

THE EPISODES
1. IF YOU KNEW SUSIE (20 May 74)
2. CONTRACT (27 May 74)
3. THE VINEYARD (3 Jun 74)
4. THE VOICE (10 Jun 74)
5. MURDER ON DEMAND (17 Jun 74)
6. THE MAN IN THE MIDDLE (24 Jun 74)
7. DEAD CONNECTION (1 Jul 74)
8. WHATEVER’S PETER PLAYING AT (8 Jul 74)
9. BOTH HANDS FREE (15 Jul 74)
10. FIRING POINT (29 Jul 74)
11. SHOULD ANYONE ANSWER (5 Aug 74)
12. FRAME (12 Aug 74)
13. RECORDING ANGEL (19 Aug 74)

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.