Shoestring

Shoestring

1979 - United Kingdom

After suffering a nervous breakdown, computer expert Eddie Shoestring is offered, as part of his therapy, the chance to help out a local Bristol-based radio station, Radio West, with an investigation. When this proves successful Shoestring is egged on by the station's receptionist, Sonia, to become a private investigator. He is given a radio show by the station's owner, Don Satchley (Michael Medwin) and invites listeners to phone in with their problems, thereby becoming, not so much a private eye - but a 'private ear.' 

This quirky detective series was developed and produced by Robert Banks Stewart in collaboration with Richard Harris, former script editor on another private eye series, Hazell. Trevor Eve had enjoyed a succesful stage run as Paul McCartney in the West End production of Willy Russell's John, Paul, George, Ringo...and Bert but was unknown to television viewers to this point. He became an overnight hit and the series was a huge ratings success. Viewers loved Shoestring's quirkiness as he pursued criminals whilst dealing with his own inner demons. Worried about being typecast, Eve only did two series. Stewart devised Bergerac as a replacement. Radio West didn't die, though. A real-life broadcaster bought up the name in order to serve the Bristol area.

Published on January 29th, 2019. Written by Laurence Marcus for Television Heaven.

Read Next...

The Omega Factor

Psychic investigators seek out the paranormal to get a better understanding of the human mind.

Also released in 1979

Crime Buster

Ray Saxon has a nose for sports racketeers. Working for the Sunday Globe he investigates corruption and murder.

Also tagged Crime Drama

Crime of Passion TV series

In France crime passionnel (or crime of passion) was a valid defence during murder cases; during the 19th century, some cases could result in a custodial sentence for two years for the murderer.

Also tagged Crime Drama

Telford's Change

Bank manager Mark Telford takes a backward step in his career in order to retreat from the rat race.

Also released in 1979

Interpol Calling

The International Police investigate everything from murder to blackmail, drugs to hijacking and assassination to slavery.

Also tagged Crime Drama

Dick Turpin

Turpin, cheated out of his wealth while on duty in Flanders, decides to regain his money using his own, not so lawful methods.

Also released in 1979

Jack the Ripper

Two fictional detectives go off in search of clues to one of the world's greatest unsolved cases.

Also tagged Crime Drama

Columbo

Shabby looking homicide detective uses his criminal knowledge and eye for detail to pit his wits against criminals.

Also tagged Crime Drama