An HTV (ITV) production that has stood the test of time very well, and one that even the BBC admired in its day for its high production values.
This was a magic series, especially during the Michael Praed seasons (1 & 2), as the cast and crew really got along well both on and off screen. The chemistry shows in the interaction between the characters, with the acting coming across as natural and not strained.
Combine this with beautiful locations, well written plots and the inimitable Clannad theme and support music and the basis for a cult classic is made.
This is one of the shows that few will ever tire of watching, and for many, forms the definitive version of the Robin Hood legend.
Michael Praed was in his early 20s when he did this role, and he really put his stamp on it - it is doubtful if anyone else can or will command as much on-screen presence as he does playing this character. When he departed the series at the end of season 2, he did so in a way that probably furthered his fan following. Pity then that he did not find many meaty screen roles after doing Robin Of Sherwood until the recent 'Secret Adventures Of Jules Verne', although his stage performances in 'Aspects Of Love', 'Carousel' and others confirm his inherent talent.
The rest of the cast also deserve mention, particularly Nickolas Grace as the Sheriff and Robert Addie as Sir Guy, the hapless fall guy throughout the series. Guest stars read like a who's who of British drama, thus reinforcing the fact that Robin Of Sherwood was a mover and shaker in its day. It remains so today.
Thankfully, the Praed series have now been released on DVD and many be pucrchased through Amazon UK, making them accessible to a whole new generation of viewers.
