Re:Purple wigs

Marc
Still, I assume that some of the actors must have been contractually
obliged to return for UFO's second shooting block?

Probably not. UK TV contracts were never as draconian as in the US. The
closing of the MGM-British studios was a decision made in Hollywood by a
new head of MGM so was, I understand, completely unexpected. The main
actors were probably only originally contracted for the length of time
originally scheduled and there would have to have been negotiations for
them to return.
George Sewell was probably the busiest of the main actors at the time.
True, many of his TV appearances were guest roles, but around this time
of the second block of UFO production, (May to September 1970),.he was a
regular in the Paul Temple series.
When asked about this once he said, "Well, there was a long gap. They
did seventeen, then they were going to go on and do some more, but I was
already involved in other things."

Regards
John

Hi all :)

I believe George Sewell went straight on to 11 episodes of "Paul Temple" detective series within weeks of 'leaving' UFO. This MUST have been arranged and under contract at least towards to the end last few episodes of the first block of UFO. Then he later went on to "Get Carter", and a whole batch of police and investigative related TV work. Then a whole new Series of "Special Branch" originally started with other actors in '69, but with George Sewell then taking on the role of 'Craven' with Patrick Mower (The Square Triangle" as 'Hegarty' as his side-kick. Derren Nesbitt (The man Who came Back) and quite a few other ITC regulars also also appeared in Special Branch.It was the success of Special Branch, that in turn led to other Police related dramas such as 'The Sweeney' and 'The Professionals'....

George certainly seemed to specialize in Police roles, although not always.He was one very popular and versatile actor. Very, very sadly missed by everyone.

I had the privilege to meet George a number of times, and he always made you feel right at home, at ease, and like you were the ONLY one he was interested in talking to. He also had the biggest grin you've ever seen, and shaking hands with him left your hand numb for hours :)

A very warm and decent person.

Hope this is helpful

Best to all

Griff

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George Sewell was probably the busiest of the main actors at the time.
True, many of his TV appearances were guest roles, but around this time
of the second block of UFO production, (May to September 1970),.he was a
regular in the Paul Temple series.
When asked about this once he said, "Well, there was a long gap. They
did seventeen, then they were going to go on and do some more, but I was
already involved in other things."