Special Branch: The Kazmirov Affair (ITV 15 Oct 1969, with Ray Smith)

More Russian espionage action is at the heart of The Kazmirov Affair. The story centres around a novel that has been written by well known Soviet author Kazmirov. Jordan becomes convinced that the KGB have added a fake chapter into the book in a bid to discredit the writer.

Jordan thinks professor Peter Brovnik may be involved and that there is way more to the book than meets the eye. However when Jordan’s investigations result in an official complaint the case is shut down.

The fabulous Ray Smith pops up as Detective Chief Inspector Jeffries, working with Jordan on the case. Ros Drinkwater, who would very soon go on to a starring role as Steve in the BBC classic crime drama Paul Temple.

This was another topical story as the plight of Russian writers being targeted as dissidents was very much in the news at the time. It was also another example of how things don’t go Special Branch’s way all of the time,

production details
UK / ITV – Thames / 1×50 minute episode / Broadcast Wednesday 15 October 1969 at 9.00pm

Writer: Emanuel Litvinoff / Production Design: Fred Pusey / Director: Mike Vardy

Series: Special Branch Season 1 Episode 4

cast
Derren Nesbitt as Jordan
Wensley Pithey as Eden
Keith Washington as Morrissey
Ray Smith as Detective Chief Inspector Jeffries
Athene Fielding as Mabel
Edward Burnham as Professor Crowther
John Bailey as Peter Brovnik
Jane Hilary as Secretary
Gerald Sim as Douglas Lifford
Patricia Lawrence as Elena Brovnik
Ros Drinkwater as Detective Constable Janet Sims
John Cobner as Detective Constable Brewer
David Garth as Deputy Commander

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.