A Perfect Spy (TV series)


A Perfect Spy is a BBC serial adaptation of John le Carré's 1986 spy novel A Perfect Spy which was aired on BBC2 and broadcast from 4 November to 16 December 1987. It follows the career of the British MI6 spy Magnus Pym from his early days as a schoolboy to his eventual disappearance as a suspected agent of the Czech secret service.

Plot summary

A Perfect Spy traces the life story of Magnus Pym and his career in British intelligence and as a double agent. The series recounts Pym's childhood with his con-man father, his early years at school and university, his encounters with long-time friend and Czech spy Axel, and his final downfall.

Main cast

Reception

John J. O'Connor of The New York Times cited the series as "on a par with Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy and Smiley's People,", and wrote it "makes another very impressive addition to the television record of Le Carre explorations. Gloomy and disturbing, to be sure, but singularly absorbing."

Awards and Nominations

The series was nominated for five BAFTA Awards in 1988, for Drama Series, Ray McAnally for Actor, Michael Storey for Original Music and Television Craft for Film Cameraman and Film Sound.
The series was nominated for two Emmy Awards at the 41st Primetime Emmy Awards, for Outstanding Miniseries and Peggy Ashcroft for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Miniseries.