True, this is a re-working of a popular and controversial story on MANNIX about a year earlier, but just as good. Excellent writing wins out.
One thing for certain, it's a sweet mystery for Barnaby and JR. It deals with a shady guy named Doyle (best played by Gary Lockwood) involved in the kidnapping of a girl --some ten years earlier!
He returns after all these years, and apparently still holding onto his victim, now demanding a full ransom for her safe return. How can that be?
One incredible storyline, written by Mann Rubin, who originally wrote this for MANNIX, with a couple of tweeks here and there. It would have been kinda' neat if producer Quinn Martin used the same cast! --but that's too much to ask for. Rubin wrote six episodes for the show, also linked to MISSION IMPOSSIBLE. Mel Damski, a relatively new director at the time, did a fine job with the guest stars, and Lockwood, without question, a standout. Mel became a regular director for LOU GRANT, later ALLY MCBEAL and PICKET FENCES.
I agree with the last reviewer, it's a fairly bleak story, especially with the likes of a victimized child, but worth giving it a watch; definitely a new slant for the series. 10 Stars.
Look for popular actress Jenny O'Hara (as Angie), who appeared five times on the show. Jenny has a super dramatic role here. She later co-starred in MY SISTER SAM. As of 2023, still active in Hollywood.
SEASON 5 EPISODE 5 remastered CBS/Paramount dvd box set. Some classic pix of Barnaby on the box cover for all us fans.
