Remembering Patrick Macnee (Feb 6, 1922 – June 25, 2015)

Patrick Macnee as John Steed

Patrick Macnee as “John Steed” in the British TV show, “The Avengers”

I was saddened to hear of the passing of Patrick Macnee recently. By coincidence, I had been on an “Avengers” TV show kick, viewing some of the 1965 and 1966 episodes with him (as John Steed) and Diana Rigg (as Emma Peel).

I loved this show as a kid. I think I was 8 years old when I first discovered it, so that would make it the 1966 season. I was in awe, of course, with “Mrs. Peel,” as was any young boy of the time! But, the chemistry between these two actors, the sly humor, along with the fascinating (and sometimes a little weird, creepy, or both!) storylines were what made the show for me.

And “Steed” was just so smooth, elegant, and charming, all while being a “man of action” in his unflappable British way. Macnee’s Steed was the very epitome, to me, of what a British gentleman spy could be: very suave, cool, canny, unperturbed, clear-headed, and dryly witty. And he packed a mean umbrella for all fighting purposes! I have always admired him.

Thank you, Mr. Macnee! Your “John Steed” will live forever in this once-young boy’s heart!