Madly In Love (ITV 1972, Richard Beckinsale, Madeline Smith

Comedy drama Madly In Love was broadcast under the Sunday Night Theatre strand of single plays and starring a young Richard Beckinsale as timid, love struck Angus MacFee and his relationship with Mary Todd (played by the gorgeous Madeline Smith, as evidenced by the picture above very much playing to type) who suffers from a complex that makes her obey every command.

The week of broadcast saw the TV Times carry an interview with Smith in which she spoke at length about the fact that producers and directors only wanted her to undress. “At one time I became so fed up with it all that I called a halt to pin-up pictures and attempted to become recognised only as an actress. But everything I do seems to end up with me in a mini-skirt and a tiny, tight top. My resolve doesn’t seem to have worked.”

Production Details
UK / ITVAnglia (for Sunday Night Theatre) / 1×60 minute episode / Broadcast Sunday 2 July 1972 at 10.15pm

Writer: Paul Ableman / Script Editor: John Rosenberg / Production Design: Marilyn Taylor / Director: John Jacobs

cast
Richard Beckinsale as Angus MacFee
Madeline Smith as Mary Todd
Eleanor Summerfield as Mrs Elsie Todd
Michael Bates as Reginald Todd
Stuart Mungall as Dr Gordon MacNair

Alastair James is the editor-in-chief of Memorable TV, leading the charge in covering today's must-see television. A lifelong television enthusiast, his passion began with a deep dive into the world of classic sci-fi, culminating in his role as editor of "Beyond the Static," a publication devoted to celebrating iconic sci-fi series. While his love for classic television remains, Alastair's focus at Memorable TV is firmly on the present, analyzing the latest trends in the television landscape, from gripping crime dramas to the ever-evolving strategies of Survivor. His insights have been featured in numerous publications. At Memorable TV, Alastair's goal is to provide readers with sharp commentary, engaging reviews, and in-depth analysis of the shows dominating the current conversation.