Raretvandfilm

Raretvandfilm The best place to buy old TV shows & Films that never had an official Dvd release.
(14)

R.I.P.Anthony Head - 20th February 1954 - 5th June 2026.
05/06/2026

R.I.P.
Anthony Head - 20th February 1954 - 5th June 2026.

Jason Connery joined Robin of Sherwood in its third and final television season (1986), taking over the central role aft...
05/06/2026

Jason Connery joined Robin of Sherwood in its third and final television season (1986), taking over the central role after the departure of Michael Praed, who had played Robin of Loxley in the first two seasons. Rather than simply recasting the character, creator Richard Carpenter introduced a new protagonist: Robert of Huntingdon, who becomes the successor to the fallen Robin and inherits the mantle of the Hooded Man.

Robert of Huntingdon: A Different Robin
Connery's Robert is not a replacement in personality for Robin of Loxley. He begins as a young nobleman chosen by the mystical forest spirit Herne the Hunter to continue Robin's mission. Initially reluctant and uncertain, Robert doubts whether he can live up to the legendary reputation of his predecessor. Much of his character arc centres on overcoming that insecurity and growing into a leader worthy of Sherwood's outlaws.

The opening two-part story, Herne's Son, follows Robert as he reunites the scattered band of outlaws after Loxley's death and gradually accepts his destiny as the new Hooded Man.

How Connery's Robin Differs from Praed's
Fans often note that Connery's Robin is portrayed as:

More aristocratic and thoughtful.

Less instinctively heroic at first.

More introspective and uncertain.

A character whose confidence develops over the season.

This contrast was intentional. Carpenter wanted to explore an alternative Robin Hood tradition in which Robin was the son of the Earl of Huntingdon rather than a Saxon yeoman. The result is a story about inheritance, destiny and earning leadership rather than simply embodying it from the start.

Relationships and Character Development.

Robert gradually wins the trust of the remaining outlaws—Much, Will Scarlet, Little John, Tuck and Nasir—who are still grieving for the original Robin. He also develops a slow-burning romance with Marion, whose lingering love for Robin of Loxley adds emotional complexity to their relationship.

One of the season's recurring themes is whether Robert can truly become "Herne's Son." His legitimacy is symbolically confirmed when the mystical sword Albion recognises him as the chosen successor.

Reception and Legacy.

At the time, replacing a popular lead was a risky move, but Connery's performance has since gained considerable appreciation among fans. While some viewers preferred Praed's charismatic Robin of Loxley, others admired Connery's more nuanced portrayal of a reluctant hero growing into his role. The third season is often praised for giving the legend a unique "second Robin" narrative that distinguishes Robin of Sherwood from most Robin Hood adaptations.

Connery remained closely associated with the series and later reprised the role in the audio drama adaptation of Robin of Sherwood: The Knights of the Apocalypse, alongside many of the original cast members.

In summary, Jason Connery's Robert of Huntingdon is best understood not as a replacement for Robin of Loxley, but as a successor who must earn the title of Robin Hood. His season explores grief, legacy, and the burden of living up to a legend, giving Robin of Sherwood one of the most distinctive interpretations of the Robin Hood myth.

John Abineri played one of the most distinctive supporting roles in Robin of Sherwood (1984–1986): the mystical forest f...
05/06/2026

John Abineri played one of the most distinctive supporting roles in Robin of Sherwood (1984–1986): the mystical forest figure Herne the Hunter.

Herne is not a historical character in the story, but a supernatural guardian of Sherwood Forest, portrayed as a shamanic, almost pagan spirit who guides and tests Robin. Abineri appears wrapped in the iconic stag-skull headpiece and antlered form, often emerging in misty, ritual-like sequences that give the series its strongly mythic tone.

Within the show, Herne acts as:

Robin’s spiritual mentor and guide, especially early in his transformation from outlaw to “Hooded Man”

The source of Robin’s sense of destiny and purpose, rather than just rebellion against the Sheriff of Nottingham

A messenger of the forest’s will, often delivering cryptic instructions or warnings

Herne is also the one who calls Robin to his role as champion of the forest, and in some versions of the mythology used by the series, he provides Robin with key symbolic gifts (such as weapons or guidance tied to his “chosen” status).

Abineri’s performance is deliberately restrained and otherworldly—mostly voice, posture, and presence—so Herne feels less like a character with normal dialogue and more like a force of nature. That’s a big part of why the role is remembered: it anchors the series’ blend of Robin Hood legend with pagan mysticism and fantasy elements, which set Robin of Sherwood apart from more traditional adaptations.

Philip Jackson plays Abbot Hugo in the 1980s ITV fantasy-adventure series Robin of Sherwood.Abbot Hugo is a recurring an...
05/06/2026

Philip Jackson plays Abbot Hugo in the 1980s ITV fantasy-adventure series Robin of Sherwood.

Abbot Hugo is a recurring antagonist during the early part of the show. He is essentially a corrupt and power-hungry church figure who works alongside (and sometimes independently from) the secular villains like the Sheriff of Nottingham and Guy of Gisburne. His character represents the series’ broader theme of institutional corruption, particularly within the medieval Church, which is often shown exploiting the poor and supporting the ruling elite.

Within the story, Abbot Hugo:

Acts as a political and religious power broker in Nottinghamshire

Schemes to undermine Robin of Loxley and his band of outlaws

Uses his ecclesiastical authority to justify oppressive actions and protect his own interests

Often clashes with Robin’s resistance, especially in plots involving land, tithes, or sanctuary rights

Philip Jackson appears mainly in the first two series (Michael Praed era) of Robin of Sherwood, contributing to the show’s darker, more mythic tone where villains are not just soldiers or sheriffs but also figures of religious authority.

Nickolas Grace played the Sheriff of Nottingham, Robert de Rainault, in the ITV series Robin of Sherwood (1984–1986). Th...
05/06/2026

Nickolas Grace played the Sheriff of Nottingham, Robert de Rainault, in the ITV series Robin of Sherwood (1984–1986). The character served as one of the show's principal antagonists and appeared throughout all three seasons, becoming one of the most memorable interpretations of the Sheriff in Robin Hood television history.

Unlike many versions of the Sheriff that portray him as a straightforward tyrant, Grace's Robert de Rainault was a more sophisticated and politically minded villain. He was ambitious, intelligent, manipulative, and deeply concerned with increasing his power and wealth. Rather than leading troops personally, he preferred intrigue, bureaucracy, and schemes, often relying on his enforcer, Sir Guy of Gisburne, to carry out the physical work. This created one of the series' most entertaining relationships, with the Sheriff frequently mocking Gisburne's blunt, military approach while depending on him to fight Robin Hood.

Within the story, Robert de Rainault is the King's chief representative in Nottinghamshire and Sherwood. He is portrayed as a Norman nobleman whose authority is challenged both by Robin Hood's outlaw band and by rival nobles. His relationship with his brother, the ambitious churchman Abbot Hugo de Rainault, adds another layer of political conflict, as the two frequently compete for influence and status.

Grace's performance stood out because he avoided making the Sheriff a one-dimensional villain. He brought wit, sarcasm, vanity, and occasional flashes of vulnerability to the role. His cultured manner, sharp dialogue delivery, and dry humour contrasted effectively with Robert Addie's more physical portrayal of Sir Guy of Gisburne. Together, they formed one of the strongest villainous partnerships in the series. Many fans regard Grace's Sheriff as one of the definitive screen versions of the character.

The character became so closely associated with Grace that he later reprised the role in the 2016 audio continuation, Robin of Sherwood: The Knights of the Apocalypse, which adapted a long-unproduced script by series creator Richard Carpenter.

In summary, Nickolas Grace's contribution to Robin of Sherwood was to create a Sheriff of Nottingham who was not merely cruel but also clever, cynical, and darkly funny. His performance helped elevate the series beyond a simple adventure drama, providing Robin Hood with an adversary whose intellect was often as dangerous as any sword.

Robert Addie played Sir Guy of Gisburne in the television series Robin of Sherwood, a role that became his best-known pe...
05/06/2026

Robert Addie played Sir Guy of Gisburne in the television series Robin of Sherwood, a role that became his best-known performance and helped establish him as a prominent face of 1980s British television.

In Robin of Sherwood, Sir Guy of Gisburne is far more than a conventional Robin Hood villain. As the chief military commander of Nottingham and the Sheriff’s principal enforcer, he serves as Robin Hood’s most persistent human adversary. While the Sheriff of Nottingham wields political power, Gisburne represents physical force, leading soldiers, hunting outlaws, and repeatedly attempting to destroy Robin and his followers.

What made Addie’s portrayal memorable was the complexity he brought to the character. Rather than playing Gisburne as a one-dimensional villain, he portrayed him as a proud, frustrated warrior driven by wounded ambition and a desperate need for recognition. The character often clashes with the Sheriff, who relies on him but also mocks and belittles him. This creates a sense of bitterness and insecurity beneath Gisburne’s outward brutality.

Throughout the series, Gisburne is depicted as a capable soldier who considers himself “a warrior, not a courtier.” He prefers direct action over diplomacy and frequently resorts to intimidation or violence, yet he is not without moments of vulnerability. Several storylines reveal emotional dimensions to the character, including unrequited love and his struggle for status and acceptance. Later in the series, a major revelation establishes him as the illegitimate son of the Earl of Huntingdon, making him the half-brother of Robert of Huntingdon, the second Robin Hood. This twist adds further tragedy and depth to his rivalry with the outlaws.

Addie’s physical presence was a major asset to the role. Tall, athletic, and an accomplished horseman, he convincingly embodied the image of a Norman knight. His swordsmanship, commanding voice, and ability to balance menace with flashes of humour made Gisburne one of the series’ standout characters. Many fans regard him as one of the definitive screen versions of Guy of Gisburne.

The enduring popularity of Addie’s performance lies in the fact that his Gisburne is both threatening and strangely sympathetic. He is cruel and often ruthless, yet his failures, frustrations, and yearning for respect make him a more human figure than many Robin Hood antagonists. As a result, Robert Addie’s Sir Guy remains one of the most memorable elements of Robin of Sherwood and a key reason the series continues to be highly regarded among fans of the Robin Hood legend.

Mark Ryan’s role in Robin of Sherwood was as Nasir, a Saracen warrior who becomes one of Robin Hood’s “Merry Men.”Origin...
05/06/2026

Mark Ryan’s role in Robin of Sherwood was as Nasir, a Saracen warrior who becomes one of Robin Hood’s “Merry Men.”

Originally, Nasir was not meant to be a long-term character. He was introduced as a skilled, mysterious fighter—initially aligned with the antagonist—but the character proved so popular with both the cast and production team that he was brought into Robin’s outlaw band and became a permanent member.

Within the series, Nasir stands out for a few key reasons:

A non-English, non-Christian member of the group, which was unusual for Robin Hood adaptations at the time.

A quiet, stoic presence, often communicating more through action and swordsmanship than dialogue.

Exceptional combat skills, frequently depicted as one of the most capable fighters in the group.

A “mystery outsider” archetype, adding an exotic and mythic edge to the Merry Men dynamic.

Nasir’s inclusion also became culturally significant in hindsight, as he is often credited (alongside later adaptations) with helping popularise the idea of a diverse Merry Men band in Robin Hood retellings.

In short: Mark Ryan’s Nasir started as a one-off character but evolved into a fan-favourite, long-term outlaw whose silent, highly skilled presence became one of the distinctive elements of the series.

Ray Winstone played the outlaw Will Scarlet in the classic British television series Robin of Sherwood, and his performa...
05/06/2026

Ray Winstone played the outlaw Will Scarlet in the classic British television series Robin of Sherwood, and his performance remains one of the show's most memorable elements. Unlike the light-hearted, mischievous versions of Will Scarlet often seen in traditional Robin Hood adaptations, Winstone's portrayal was darker, angrier, and more psychologically complex.

In the series, Will's original name is Will Scathlock. His life is shattered when mercenaries brutally murder his wife, Elena. Consumed by grief and rage, he takes the name "Scarlet" after killing some of those responsible. This traumatic backstory explains the fierce hatred he carries, particularly towards the Norman oppressors who dominate England.

When Robin first meets him, Will is a fellow prisoner escaping from Nottingham Castle. He becomes one of Robin's closest companions and a core member of the Merry Men, alongside Little John, Much, Friar Tuck, and later Nasir. However, Will is far from an easy follower. Throughout the series he frequently clashes with Robin because of his impulsive nature and thirst for vengeance. Where Robin often seeks justice and restraint, Will is driven by emotion and a readiness to use violence.

Winstone brought a raw physicality and authenticity to the role. His Will Scarlet is fiercely loyal to his friends, brave in battle, and often provides moments of humour through his blunt observations and sharp wit. Yet beneath the bravado lies a deeply wounded man whose personal tragedy never fully heals. This combination of toughness, vulnerability, and unpredictability made him one of the most compelling characters in the series.

Many fans and critics regard Winstone's interpretation as one of the definitive screen versions of Will Scarlet. Rather than being merely Robin Hood's cheerful companion, he became a symbol of the anger and suffering caused by oppression, serving as both Robin's most dangerous ally and a constant reminder of what unchecked vengeance can become.

In short, Ray Winstone's Will Scarlet is the emotional firebrand of Robin of Sherwood—volatile, loyal, tragic, and unforgettable. His performance helped give the series its distinctive gritty tone and remains one of the reasons the show is still fondly remembered today.

Peter Llewellyn Williams stars in the cult television series Robin of Sherwood, where he portrayed Much the Miller's Son...
05/06/2026

Peter Llewellyn Williams stars in the cult television series Robin of Sherwood, where he portrayed Much the Miller's Son, one of the most important members of Robin Hood's outlaw band. The role became his signature performance and remains the character for which he is most widely recognised.

Much is introduced as the son of the miller who raised Robin after the death of Robin's father. In the series, he is effectively Robin's foster brother and one of his oldest and most loyal companions. At the beginning of the story, Much is portrayed as innocent, impulsive, and sometimes naïve, leading enemies such as Sir Guy of Gisburne to dismiss him as a "half-wit." However, the series consistently shows that his apparent simplicity hides courage, loyalty, and a strong moral compass.

Williams brought warmth and humour to the role, making Much an audience favourite. Unlike some of the larger-than-life outlaws such as Little John or Will Scarlet, Much often represented the ordinary person caught up in extraordinary events. He served as a messenger, scout, and signalman for the outlaw band, frequently using his catapult and flute, while also providing emotional balance within the group.

One of the most interesting aspects of Williams' performance is the character's development across the three series. As the story grows darker and more mature, Much also changes. Following the death of the first Robin, Robin of Loxley, Much becomes less innocent and more experienced, reflecting the hardships endured by the outlaws. His growth from a dependent younger brother figure into a capable and resilient member of the band is one of the show's strongest character arcs.

Williams appeared throughout the original run of the series and later reprised the role in the 2018 audio drama sequel Robin of Sherwood: The Knights of the Apocalypse, reuniting with several members of the original cast.

In many ways, Much embodies the heart of Robin of Sherwood. While Robin provides leadership and heroism, Much offers humanity. Peter Llewellyn Williams' portrayal helped make the character one of the most memorable interpretations of Much in any Robin Hood adaptation, contributing significantly to the enduring popularity of the series.

Phil Rose’s most famous television role was as Phil Rose’s portrayal of Friar Tuck in the cult ITV fantasy-adventure ser...
05/06/2026

Phil Rose’s most famous television role was as Phil Rose’s portrayal of Friar Tuck in the cult ITV fantasy-adventure series Robin of Sherwood. He appeared throughout the show's run and became one of the core members of Robin Hood’s band of outlaws.

In Robin of Sherwood, Rose’s Friar Tuck is more than the traditional comic monk often seen in Robin Hood adaptations. The character begins as a churchman connected to the authorities in Nottingham but ultimately joins Robin’s cause after recognizing the corruption of the Sheriff and his allies. As a member of the Merry Men, Tuck provides spiritual guidance, practical wisdom, humour, and occasional moral criticism when his companions stray from their ideals.

Richard Carpenter, the series creator, described Tuck as representing “the better side of Christianity,” making him an important counterbalance to the corrupt church figures featured in the series, particularly Abbot Hugo. Rose played the role with warmth and humanity, emphasizing Tuck’s compassion and common sense rather than turning him into a caricature.

Among the Merry Men, Tuck develops a particularly close friendship with Clive Mantle’s Little John, and Rose’s performance helped give the outlaw band a believable sense of camaraderie. His blend of humour, loyalty, and occasional exasperation made Tuck one of the series’ most popular supporting characters.

The role remains the one for which Phil Rose is best known, and many fans of Robin of Sherwood regard his interpretation as one of the definitive screen versions of Friar Tuck.

Address

178 Commercial Street Batley
Morley
WF175DP

Website

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Raretvandfilm posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Business

Send a message to Raretvandfilm:

Shortcuts

Share

Category