Prisoner Of Zenda, The (BBC-1 1984, Malcolm Sinclair, John Woodvine)

Period drama serial The Prisoner of Zenda, based on on the much loved book by Anthony Hope focused on a case of mistaken identity. Whilst in Ruritania, Rudolf Rassendyll is discovered to be the exact double of the King (also called Rudolf), thanks to a villainous plot that could spell trouble for the King, Rudolf ends up changing places with him.

This production of The Prisoner of Zenda was a well cast, mostly studio bound, classic BBC sunday time version and the plot, well at least variations on it, has been used dozens of times in movies and tv over the years.

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production details
UK / BBC-1 / 6×30 minute episode / Broadcast 15 November – 23 December 1984

Writer: James Andrew Hall / Script Editor: Terrance Dicks / Design: Paul Joel / Producer: Barry Letts / Director: Leonard Lewis

cast
MALCOLM SINCLAIR as Rudolf Rassendyll and King Rudolph
JOHN WOODVINE as Colonel Sapt
GEORGE IRVING as ‘Black’ Michael
JONATHAN MORRIS as Rupert Of Hentzau
NICHOLAS GECKS as Fritz Von Tarlenheim
PAULINE MORAN as Antoinette de Mauban
VICTORIA WICKS as Princess Flavia
PEGGY SHEILDS as Servant
JOHN MOORE as Josef
PETER COPLEY as Marshall Strakencz
GEORGE WARING as Prefect
GABRIEL WOOLF as Cardinal Archbishop
CLYDE GABELL as Krafstein
BEN FEITELSON as De Gautet

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.