Special Squad

"Special Squad" was essentially an Australian variation on the classic British action show "The Professionals" (1977-1983). Indeed Raymond Menmuir acted as producer on both series and other similarities included a triumvirate of lead characters, fast-moving plots, car chases, shootouts and other rough stuff. The junior characters even used similar two-digit call-signs.

However "Special Squad" was largely happy to concentrate on straightforward "street level" crime rather than than the nice variety of villainry, espionage and political intrigue of the Brit show. "Squad" also lacked the flair, biting humour and character rapport that had been key to The Professionals' success. Nevertheless it was reasonably entertaining and probably deserved to last longer than its single season.