Return of the Saint (1978)
The legendary Simon Templar rides again — Ian Ogilvy stars in this stylish British action-adventure series from ITV1.
Return of the Saint - Series Information
- Original Title: Return of the Saint
- First Air Year: 1978
- Last Air Year: 1979
- Created by: Leslie Charteris
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Action, Adventure
- Content Rating (US): NR
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode (49 minutes)
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 24
- Status: Ended
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- First Air Date: September 10, 1978 (United States - NR)
- Networks: ITV1
Return of the Saint - Plot
Follow the swashbuckling exploits of Simon Templar, a modern-day Robin Hood of sorts.
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Return of the Saint - Cast & Crew
Creator(s)
- Leslie Charteris
Main Cast
- Ian Ogilvy
- Norman Eshley
- Gayle Hunnicutt
- Stratford Johns
- John Hallam
- Leon Lissek
- Edward Brayshaw
- Derren Nesbitt
- Prentis Hancock
- Wensley Pithey
Writers
- Leslie Charteris
- John Kruse
- John Goldsmith
- Terence Feely
- Moris Farhi
Executive Producers
- Robert S. Baker
Return of the Saint - FAQs
Who plays Simon Templar in Return of the Saint?
Ian Ogilvy takes on the iconic role of Simon Templar in Return of the Saint. Stepping into shoes previously filled by Roger Moore, Ogilvy brought a suave, athletic energy to the character, earning praise for his charismatic portrayal across all 24 episodes of the series.
When did Return of the Saint first air?
Return of the Saint first aired on September 10, 1978, in the United States. The series originally broadcast on ITV1 in the United Kingdom and ran through 1979, comprising a single season of 24 episodes.
Is Return of the Saint based on a true story?
Not at all — Return of the Saint is based on the fictional character Simon Templar, created by author Leslie Charteris. Templar first appeared in Charteris's novels and short stories beginning in 1928, and the TV series draws on that long-running literary tradition of globe-trotting adventure and roguish charm.
How does Return of the Saint differ from the original series?
While the original The Saint (1962–1969) starred Roger Moore and was filmed in black and white before transitioning to colour, Return of the Saint brought a glossier, more contemporary feel with location shooting across Europe, a fresh cast led by Ian Ogilvy, and updated production values befitting late-1970s television.
Where can you watch Return of the Saint?
Streaming availability for Return of the Saint varies by region. For the most up-to-date viewing options — including streaming, rental, and purchase platforms available in your area — check JustWatch, which aggregates current availability across all major services.
How many episodes does Return of the Saint have?
Return of the Saint consists of 24 episodes across its single season, which aired between 1978 and 1979. Each episode runs approximately 49 minutes, offering self-contained adventure stories centred on the charismatic Simon Templar.
Who created Return of the Saint?
The series is rooted in the work of Leslie Charteris, who created the character of Simon Templar. The television production was overseen by executive producer Robert S. Baker, a veteran of the original Saint series, with scripts contributed by a team of experienced British television writers.
What genre is Return of the Saint?
Return of the Saint is an action-adventure series. It blends globe-trotting escapades, light crime-solving, and stylish heroics in the tradition of classic British adventure television, making it an entertaining watch for fans of suave protagonists and fast-paced episodic storytelling.
More About Return of the Saint
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