Matt Helm

The TV series Matt Helm was a classic action-adventure and crime drama that aired for one season on ABC from 1975 to 1976. The main character of this thrilling series is played by the charming and talented Anthony Franciosa, known for his long list of successful film and TV appearances.

The series is based on the character from Donald Hamilton's series of spy novels, but with a slightly different take. Instead of keeping the espionage theme, the creators of the show decided to make Matt Helm a retired spy. A former operative of an unspecified U.S government agency, Helm has hung up his spy gear in favor of a quieter, peaceful life as a private investigator. But as much as he tries to keep his new life low-key, his past keeps pulling him into a world of danger and intrigue, much to his chagrin.

Developed by Sam Rolfe, known for his work on "The Man from U.N.C.L.E," the television series still maintains the spirit of intrigue and sophistication that the novels were known for. The show expertly blends action, drama, and elements of mystery with hints of subtle humor, making it stand out in the arena of television action series of the time. The twist of being a former spy adds an additional layer of depth to Helm's character, hinting at a mystifying past while presenting him with unique challenges stemming from his secret agent history.

Anthony Franciosa's portrayal of Matt Helm is especially worthy of note. His playful charm, the edginess of a hardened spy, and Mackinaw-coat-wearing detective's smartness make his character unforgettable. Franciosa is supported by an ensemble cast including Laraine Stephens, who plays his assistant, secretary, and the agency's owner, and Jeff Donnell as his housekeeper. The presence of a strong supporting cast adds more depth and appeals to the show.

The storylines in Matt Helm are a reflection of the time it was filmed. Each episode presents a new mystery or case for Helm to solve, often drawing upon his past dealings in espionage and counter-espionage. This results in a mix of storylines that range from relatively straightforward detective work to complex narratives involving international intrigue and old foes. Although the show was short-lived, the range of storylines provided plenty of interesting material for audiences to enjoy.

A notable feature of the Matt Helm series was its use of location shooting. Instead of relying solely on studio sets, the show used many outdoor locations which added an extra layer of realism and led to its unique visual style. This production choice also gave viewers the opportunity to immerse themselves in the scenic beauty of the unique locales, which was relatively rare for TV series of this era.

As a stark contrast to the action-heavy espionage world, certain episodes dive deep into Helm's personal life, providing rare glimpses of his life beyond his work. We see Helm's attempts to balance his dangerous career and personal life, all while keeping his past a secret. These moments of introspection and character development lend an unexpected yet welcome human aspect to the show's central character, making it more than just another action-packed detective series.

While the life span of Matt Helm on TV was short, it managed to create a loyal fanbase that still exists today. The series provides a unique mix of detective procedural with an intrigue of international espionage, coupled with superb acting from Anthony Franciosa and the rest of the cast. Its distinct charm, the trait of its protagonist, and the exciting storylines continue to make it a memorable entry in the history of 1970s television.

In conclusion, the Matt Helm series, starring Anthony Franciosa, is a stylish suspense-filled drama set in a world of crime and mystery. It explores its main character's attempts to navigate the complexities of a peaceful life following an adrenaline-fueled past, serving up a potent mix of action, intrigue, and occasional moments of heartwarming humor and sentimentality. Even decades later, it continues to remain an enjoyable watch for fans of classic detective dramas and showcases Franciosa's exceptional acting skills to the fullest.