Tom Georgeson’s Career-Defining Performance as DI Harry Naylor

Building on Social Drama Success

Initially, Tom Georgeson established his reputation through Alan Bleasdale’s memorable social dramas. However, his portrayal of Detective Inspector Harry Naylor truly showcased his talents. Subsequently, “Between The Lines” (1992-1994) became British television’s most sophisticated police procedural. Furthermore, this groundbreaking series perfectly matched Georgeson’s ability to portray complex characters.

The Moral Foundation of CIB

Essentially, “Between the Lines” followed the Complaints Investigation Bureau team. Moreover, this unit specialized in policing the police themselves. Additionally, two decades before Jed Mercurio’s Line of Duty exposed police corruption extensively. Nevertheless, Detective Superintendent Tony Clark, DI Harry Naylor, and DS Maureen Connell pursued corrupt officers. Consequently, they operated from the Metropolitan Police’s Complaints Investigation Bureau effectively.

Naylor’s Essential Role

Specifically, Georgeson’s Harry Naylor served as the “sharp, seasoned Detective Inspector” character. Additionally, he functioned as both mentor and moral anchor simultaneously. Meanwhile, his superior Tony Clark displayed ambitious, politically savvy characteristics with personal flaws. In contrast, Naylor represented the experienced, grounded detective who understood systemic corruption. Therefore, he recognized the importance of fighting corruption from within institutions.

The Veteran’s Invaluable Perspective

Originally, the series began with Chief Inspector Tony Clark’s press-ganged CIB assignment. Subsequently, he met his subordinates Mo Connell and Harry Naylor. Furthermore, as one of Clark’s key subordinates, Naylor contributed veteran perspective. Moreover, he had witnessed firsthand the institutional problems CIB addressed.

Drawing from Authentic Experience

Particularly, Georgeson’s portrayal proved effective because of his working-class Liverpool background. Additionally, his experience playing characters who understood systemic corruption prepared him. Previously, his roles in Boys from the Blackstuff, Scully, and G.B.H. Furthermore, these groundbreaking TV dramas were all penned by Alan Bleasdale. Consequently, he perfectly understood characters navigating treacherous police politics while maintaining integrity.

Complex Investigations and Accountability

Specifically, episodes like “Manslaughter” (1993) demonstrated the show’s commitment to accountability. Additionally, “Manoeuvre 11” (1993) examined police response to deadly service cut rallies. Furthermore, these complex investigations required Naylor’s experience and steady presence. Therefore, he provided crucial support to Clark’s more impulsive leadership style.

The Perfect Ensemble Dynamic

Ultimately, “Between the Lines” succeeded because of chemistry between its three leads. Moreover, the series is now recognized as “British television’s forgotten classic.” Additionally, contemporaries like “Cracker, Prime Suspect and Inspector Morse” are better known. However, they are “arguably, not as good” as this series. Furthermore, Georgeson’s Naylor formed one-third of a perfectly balanced investigative team.

Complementary Character Strengths

Specifically, Clark provided political acumen and ambition to the team. Meanwhile, Connell brought fresh perspectives and moral clarity to investigations. In contrast, Naylor represented institutional memory and practical wisdom effectively. Therefore, he understood how the system worked and knew problematic areas. Additionally, he navigated complex Metropolitan Police relationships that often hindered investigations.

A Sustained Performance Achievement

Notably, Georgeson’s most notable credits included supporting parts in “Between the Lines.” Additionally, he appeared in three Alan Bleasdale dramas successfully. However, his work in “Between the Lines” stands out for excellence. Furthermore, unlike episodic television appearances, Harry Naylor allowed character development. Consequently, he explored psychological tolls of investigating colleagues across multiple seasons.

The Lasting Legacy

Essentially, the series followed Detective Superintendent Tony Clark’s mission effectively. Moreover, as team head, Clark’s job involved rooting out corrupt officers. Additionally, Naylor’s role in this mission proved absolutely crucial. Furthermore, he provided practical experience and street wisdom to investigations. Therefore, the CIB team’s investigations became credible and their successes meaningful.

Establishing Modern Police Drama

Significantly, Georgeson’s performance helped establish “Between the Lines” as corruption drama precursor. Additionally, his portrayal showed a seasoned detective who had seen everything. Nevertheless, he still believed in justice within the system. Furthermore, this provided emotional weight to institutional accountability exploration. Consequently, the character’s cynicism and hope made him compelling.

The Perfect Career Synthesis

Ultimately, Harry Naylor represents the perfect synthesis of Georgeson’s talents. Moreover, he combined working-class authenticity from Alan Bleasdale’s social dramas. Additionally, he demonstrated institutional knowledge and moral complexity effectively. Furthermore, this remains one of his most significant roles. Therefore, it stands as a defining performance in British television history.

Sources and Further Reading

An Appreciation Upon the Passing of Kenneth Colley (1938–2025)

Kenneth Colley enjoyed a distinguished career across stage, film, and television for six decades. He died peacefully on Monday, 30 June 2025, in Ashford, Kent, at age 87. He suffered an arm injury after a fall and then contracted COVID-19, which progressed into pneumonia. However, he remained a consummate professional until the end, with friends at his side.

Inspector Morse

Among his many roles, Colley’s performance as Detective Chief Inspector Patrick Dawson in “Second Time Around” (Series 5, Episode 1) stands out. Originally broadcast on 20 February 1991, the episode reunites Dawson—an Oxford colleague turned CID officer—with Morse when a former deputy police commissioner is murdered and a missing memoir chapter resurfaces. Colley gave Dawson both world-worn authority and underlying vulnerability. Consequently, the character added emotional depth to the mystery.

Moreover, his scenes opposite John Thaw highlighted layers of friendship and professional loyalty. Although Dawson appears only once, Colley’s portrayal left a lasting impression. Fans still cite it as one of the series’ most affecting guest roles.

Other Notable Roles

Although Star Wars brought him international fame as Admiral Piett, Colley shone across many genres. For example, he played Jesus in Terry Jones’s Life of Brian (1979) with quiet dignity and subtle humor. Likewise, he portrayed eccentric characters in Ken Russell films such as The Missionary (1982) and Crimes of Passion (1984). Furthermore, he tackled Shakespeare on the BBC, notably as the Duke of Vienna in Measure for Measure (1984).

In addition, Colley appeared in Clint Eastwood’s Firefox (1982) and the miniseries War and Remembrance (1988–89). Then in 2012, he reprised Admiral Piett in Lego Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Out, delighting a new generation of fans.

Theater and Legacy

Colley never abandoned the stage. In 2014, he starred as Estragon in Waiting for Godot at London’s Cockpit Theatre, which remained his favorite late-career role. Beyond acting, he loved gardening, collected art, and pursued fast cars with enthusiasm.

Ultimately, Kenneth Colley leaves a void in both the British crime-drama community and the galaxy far, far away. He inspired close friends and countless viewers with his remarkable body of work. His portrayal of Detective Chief Inspector Dawson continues to demonstrate his enduring craft and the depth he brought to every role.

Sources: The Independent, RTÉ Entertainment

In the pantheon of British television drama, few shows tackled police corruption so honestly. Furthermore, “Between The Lines” stands as a groundbreaking series in television history. At the heart of this revolutionary show was Siobhan Redmond’s compelling portrayal. Moreover, her Detective Sergeant Maureen Connell became one of her most celebrated performances. Additionally, this role defined her career from 1992 to 1994.

The Scottish Actress with Classical Roots

Born on 27 July 1959 in Glasgow’s Tollcross area, Siobhan Redmond inherited artistic genes. Indeed, her mother Charlotte was a drama teacher and her father John lectured at university. Consequently, this foundation in education and performance shaped her approach to complex characters. Furthermore, these influences would prove instrumental in developing Maureen Connell’s depth.

After earning a Master of Arts in English from St Andrews, Redmond began her television career. Initially, she appeared in “Alfresco” alongside future stars Hugh Laurie and Stephen Fry. However, it was her transition to dramatic television that established her reputation. Subsequently, she became recognized as a formidable talent in British entertainment.

“Between The Lines”: Police Drama with a Difference

“Between The Lines” was a British police drama that followed the Complaints Investigation Bureau. Specifically, this unit was responsible for policing the police themselves. Created by J.C. Wilsher, the series broke new ground with its unique focus. Rather than crime-solving, it concentrated on internal investigations that kept law enforcement accountable.

Redmond’s Detective Sergeant Mo Connell became her signature role, and deservedly so. The character was complex, morally driven, and unafraid to challenge authority when necessary. For instance, episodes like “A Watch & Chain of Course” showcased Connell’s unwavering dedication. Additionally, she worked undercover in hostile police stations where discovery meant danger.

A Character Ahead of Her Time

What made Maureen Connell particularly groundbreaking was not just her detective work. Moreover, her personal life also set new standards for television representation. The character was involved in a gay relationship, which created media attention. Consequently, this gave Redmond “a glorious insight into the minds of the press.”

In the second series, Mo fell in love with Kate, played by Barbara Wishere. Furthermore, their relationship continued to develop throughout the show’s run. This storyline was revolutionary for early 1990s television, particularly within police procedurals. Additionally, the traditionally masculine world of police dramas had never seen such representation.

Redmond’s sensitive and authentic portrayal helped normalize LGBTQ+ representation on British television. At that time, such characters were rare and often reduced to stereotypes. Therefore, her performance was both groundbreaking and culturally significant.

The Lasting Impact

Redmond’s “wonderfully bold Scottish accent” became synonymous with DS Maureen Connell’s character. Furthermore, her work in “Between The Lines” opened doors to numerous significant roles. Later, she appeared in “Holby City” and more recent productions like “Two Doors Down.” Additionally, “Queens of Mystery” showcased her continued commitment to challenging roles.

The success of “Between The Lines” demonstrated that audiences wanted complex, morally ambiguous characters. Moreover, Redmond’s portrayal of Maureen Connell proved this demand existed in police dramas. The show’s focus on institutional accountability resonated with viewers who questioned authority figures. Consequently, this skepticism toward power structures became increasingly common in television.

Beyond the Badge

Redmond’s theatrical background with the Royal Shakespeare Company informed her television work significantly. Moreover, this classical training brought depth to her contemporary characters. Her ability to convey both vulnerability and strength made Maureen Connell relatable. Additionally, viewers could both admire and connect with her character.

In “Between The Lines,” Siobhan Redmond didn’t just play a detective effectively. Rather, she embodied the conscience of law enforcement, questioning systems from within. Furthermore, she demanded better from those sworn to protect and serve. Her work remains a masterclass in bringing depth to potentially one-dimensional characters.

The legacy of Maureen Connell and “Between The Lines” continues influencing police dramas today. Moreover, audiences appreciate complex characters who reflect real moral challenges. These characters work within flawed systems, just like their real-world counterparts. Therefore, Siobhan Redmond’s fearless portrayal helped pave the way for nuanced representations. Consequently, her contribution to British drama remains both significant and enduring.

Sources

1. Siobhan Redmond Biography – IMDb Profile
   Personal details, career timeline, and filmography
2. “Between The Lines” Series Information – BBC Drama Database
   Episode guides, cast information, and production details
3. Royal Shakespeare Company – RSC Official Website
   Information about Redmond’s theatrical background and classical training
4. University of St Andrews – Alumni Information
   Educational background and academic achievements
5. “Alfresco” Comedy Series – British Comedy Guide
   Details about Redmond’s early television work alongside Hugh Laurie and Stephen Fry
6. LGBTQ+ Representation in 1990s Television – British Film Institute
   Historical context for queer representation in British media
7. “Holby City” Cast Information – BBC Drama
   Details about Redmond’s later television work
8. “Two Doors Down” – BBC Scotland – BBC iPlayer
   Recent work and continued presence in British television
9. “Queens of Mystery” – Drama Channel – Channel 5
   Contemporary roles and ongoing career
10. J.C. Wilsher – Creator Profile – Writers’ Guild of Great Britain
    Information about the creator of “Between The Lines”
11. Police Procedural Drama Evolution – Television Academy
    Context for the show’s influence on the genre
12. MBE Honours List – The London Gazette
    Official recognition and honors received

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