Reilly: Ace of Spies 1983
“The amazing true story of the world's first international super spy”
What is Reilly: Ace of Spies?
Reilly, Ace of Spies is a television miniseries that premiered in 1983. The series is based on the life of Sidney Reilly, a Russian Jew who worked as a spy for the British.
- Type
- TV series
- Year
- 1983
- Status
- Ended
- Episodes
- 12
- Runtime
- 50 minutes
- First aired
- Sep 5, 1983
- Last aired
- Nov 16, 1983
- Original language
- EN
- Origin
- GB
- Networks
- ITV1
- Genres
- Crime, Drama
- Updated
Where to watch
Stream
PBS Masterpiece Amazon Channel
BritBox Amazon Channel
BritBox
Britbox Apple TV ChannelStream
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Spectrum On Demand
Thirteen
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How long to binge?
Estimate the schedule using 12 episodes and an average 50-minute runtime.
Trailer
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Find the trailer on YouTube ↗Overview
Reilly, Ace of Spies is a television miniseries that premiered in 1983. The series is based on the life of Sidney Reilly, a Russian Jew who worked as a spy for the British. The miniseries dramatises his life and exploits, showcasing his work as a spy in the early 20th-century. Among his notable achievements were the infiltration of the German General Staff and a significant attempt to overthrow the Bolsheviks. Sidney Reilly was known for his exceptional espionage skills as well as his reputation with women. The series brings to life the story of this remarkable individual, exploring his experiences and adventures as a spy. The miniseries provides a glimpse into the life of one of the greatest spies to have worked for the British, offering a compelling and dramatic portrayal of his life and exploits.
Should you watch it?
“A daring Russian Jew becomes Britain’s legendary super‑spy, outwitting enemies across Europe.”
- Based on real exploits of Sidney Reilly
- Depicts daring infiltrations of German and Bolshevik leadership
- Shows the spy’s legendary charisma and womanising reputation
- Production values reflect early‑80s television standards
Watch it if you enjoy stylish period espionage dramas based on true spy legends.
The series contains mature themes of espionage, political intrigue, and adult relationships.
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Cast
Episode guide
Season 1 · 12 episodes
- E1 An Affair with a Married Woman Sep 5, 1983
- E2 Prelude to War Sep 7, 1983
- E3 The Visiting Fireman Sep 14, 1983
- E4 Anna Sep 21, 1983
- E5 Dreadnoughts and Crosses Sep 28, 1983
- E6 Dreadnoughts and Doublecrosses Oct 5, 1983
- E7 Gambit Oct 12, 1983
- E8 Endgame Oct 19, 1983
- E9 After Moscow Oct 26, 1983
- E10 The Trust Nov 2, 1983
- E11 The Last Journey Nov 9, 1983
- E12 Shutdown Nov 16, 1983
Frequently asked questions
Who is Sidney Reilly?
Sidney Reilly was a Russian‑born operative who became one of Britain’s most celebrated early 20th‑century spies.
What historical events does the series portray?
It dramatizes Reilly’s 1917 infiltration of the German General Staff and his 1918 attempt to overthrow the Bolsheviks.
Is the show based on real history?
Yes, the miniseries is a dramatization of documented episodes from Reilly’s espionage career.
What genre does the series belong to?
It is a crime‑and‑drama series focused on spy intrigue.
How long is the series?
Reilly: Ace of Spies is presented as a television miniseries first released in 1983.