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The Professionals 1977

“ANARCHY, ACTS OF TERROR, CRIMES AGAINST THE PUBLIC. TO COMBAT IT WE'VE GOT SPECIAL MEN...”

★ 7.6/10 · 47 votes TV-MA Action & AdventureCrimeDrama 5 seasons · 57 eps Ended
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Quick answer

What is The Professionals?

The Professionals is a British crime-action television drama series that aired on the ITV network from 1977 to 1983. The show follows the missions of top agents Bodie and Doyle, who work for Britain's CI5, a fictional intelligence service focused on combating terrorism and high-profile crimes.

Type
TV series
Year
1977
Status
Ended
Episodes
57
Runtime
60 minutes
First aired
Dec 30, 1977
Last aired
Feb 6, 1983
Original language
EN
Origin
GB
Networks
ITV1
Genres
Action & Adventure, Crime, Drama
Updated
Availability by region

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Estimate the schedule using 57 episodes and an average 60-minute runtime.

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Overview

The Professionals is a British crime-action television drama series that aired on the ITV network from 1977 to 1983. The show follows the missions of top agents Bodie and Doyle, who work for Britain's CI5, a fictional intelligence service focused on combating terrorism and high-profile crimes. Their controller, George Cowley, is a stern former MI5 operative who personally selects each member of his team. Bodie, a former SAS paratrooper and mercenary, operates with a cynical and violent disposition, while his partner Doyle, an ex-police officer, brings a more liberal and open-minded approach. Despite their contrasting personalities, the two are highly effective operatives and are frequently assigned the most challenging cases. The series was produced by Avengers Mark1 Productions for London Weekend Television and ran for 57 episodes over six seasons. It starred Martin Shaw, Lewis Collins, and Gordon Jackson in the lead roles.

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Should you watch it?

“Two elite CI5 agents battle terrorism and high-profile crime under the guidance of their hardened controller.”

Reasons to watch
  • dynamic character chemistry
  • fast-paced crime fighting
Keep in mind
  • contentious partner relationship

Watch it if you enjoy classic British crime dramas focused on counter-terrorism operations.

The series features themes of violence and high-stakes criminal investigation.

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Episode guide

Season 1 · 13 episodes Open the complete Season 1 guide →
Season 2 · 10 episodes
Season 3 · 8 episodes
Season 4 · 15 episodes
Season 5 · 11 episodes

Frequently asked questions

Who are the main characters?

The series centers on agents Bodie and Doyle and their controller, George Cowley.

What organization do the agents work for?

The agents work for CI5, an organization dedicated to fighting terrorism and high-profile crimes.

What is Bodie's background?

Bodie is a former SAS paratrooper and mercenary.

What is Doyle's background?

Doyle comes to CI5 from the regular police force.

Who selects the agents for CI5?

The agents are hand-picked by their controller, George Cowley, who is a former MI5 operative.