The Protectors was first broadcast in 1972 and 1973, and ran to 52 episodes over two series, each 25 minutes long—making it one of the last series of this type to be produced in a half-hour format.
It starred Robert Vaughn as Harry Rule, Nyree Dawn Porter as the Contessa Caroline di Contini, and Tony Anholt as Paul Buchet.
Episodes often featured prominent guest actors.
The series was created by Lew Grade and not by Gerry Anderson who is often erroneously credited for creating the show, even though Gerry has publically confirmed this.
Despite not featuring marionettes or any real science fiction elements, The Protectors became one of Anderson’s most popular productions, easily winning a renewal for a second series.
A third series was in the planning stages when the show’s major sponsor, Brut, ended its funding and thus forced the series’ cancellation.