Taggart: Living or Dead?

About Taggart

Taggart: The Long-Running Scottish Crime Drama That Keeps Fans Hooked

For over three decades, the gritty and suspenseful crime drama Taggart has captivated audiences in Scotland and beyond. The show, which first aired in 1983, follows the investigations of the Glasgow-based Maryhill CID, led by the tough and no-nonsense Detective Chief Inspector Jim Taggart (played by Mark McManus until his death in 1994, and later by James MacPherson).

What sets Taggart apart from other police procedurals is its unflinching portrayal of the darker side of Scottish society, tackling issues such as drug addiction, sectarianism, and domestic violence. The show's success lies in its ability to balance the gruesome and disturbing crimes with the personal lives and relationships of the detectives, making them relatable and human.

Despite its longevity, Taggart has not shied away from controversial storylines, including an episode that dealt with the aftermath of the Lockerbie bombing, and another that explored the issue of assisted suicide. The show has also launched the careers of several Scottish actors, including Blythe Duff and John Michie.

While the show has faced criticism for its portrayal of Glasgow's working-class communities, it remains a beloved institution in Scotland, with fans eagerly tuning in for each new episode. Taggart may have lost its titular character, but its legacy lives on as one of the most enduring and influential crime dramas in British television history.

References:

- "Taggart: The Scottish detective drama that refuses to die" - The Guardian

- "Taggart: The show that changed Scottish TV" - BBC News

- "Taggart: The enduring appeal of Scotland's favourite detective" - The Scotsman