Gallowglass (TV series)

Gallowglass is a three-part British television crime drama series, adapted by Chris Bryant from the 1993 novel of the same name by Ruth Rendell (writing as Barbara Vine). It was originally broadcast on ITV in 1993.

The series stars Michael York as Joseph "Sandor" Favour, the obsessive and dangerous stalker convinced that he must protect the former model, Nina Acland, played by Jacqueline Pirie. John Sessions stars as the seemingly ordinary, but actually resourceful, Graham Pascoe, who gets drawn into the mystery after witnessing an attempted kidnapping.

The plot revolves around Sandor's belief that he is Nina's "gallowglass," a traditional Celtic bodyguard sworn to protect their charge at all costs, even from themselves. He manipulates and terrorizes Nina, convinced she is under threat from unknown enemies. Graham, becoming increasingly concerned for Nina's safety, investigates Sandor's background and uncovers a history of violence and mental instability.

The series is known for its suspenseful atmosphere, psychological tension, and exploration of themes of obsession, manipulation, and the nature of protection. It faithfully adapts the twists and turns of the original novel.