This week on Very British Futures, Gareth Preston gathers a trio of passionate creatives to revisit the enigmatic world of The Prisoner — a series that reshaped British sci-fi and still sparks fierce conversation today.
The Prisoner is one of the most distinctive and influential TV series to emerge from the Sixties. A surreal, allegorical blend of spy-fi, psychological drama, and contemporary satire that has frustrated and fascinated viewers for decades. At its core is Number Six, played by creator-star Patrick McGoohan, an impressive intelligence agent abducted after resigning and imprisoned in the Village, a picturesque yet sinister coastal settlement where everyone is known only by a number. Ruled by ruthless, seemingly omnipotent authority, but Number Six is determined to escape.
Joining Gareth is David Barrie, writer and co-founder of Six of One, the officially recognised fan club for The Prisoner, who has recently published The Prisoner: What’s It All About? Alongside him sits Cev Moore, the ever-insightful voice behind Film Guff and The House of Hammer pod-casts, bringing a fan’s enthusiasm and a critic’s eye. Completing the panel is Will Hadcroft, author of thoughtful speculative fiction, music artist and long-time admirer of Patrick MacGoohan’s pas-sion project.
Each guest selects a favourite episode, revealing what drew them in — the atmosphere, the allegory, the audacity — and why Number Six’s struggle remains so compelling. Expect humour, nostalgia, and sharp analysis as they celebrate one of TV’s most unforgettable creations.
Under discussion:
A Change of Mind
Living in Harmony
Fall Out
Hosted and produced by Gareth Preston with guests David Barrie, Will Hadcroft & Cev Moore.
Music by Chatri Art
Artwork by Ken Moss
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Find out more about The Prisoner - What's It All About by David Barrie
Listen to Cev Moore on House of Hammer podcast.
Discover Will Hadcroft's music project Principle Character.
More information about Six of One.
