The Secret Service created by Gerry Anderson (1969)
The Secret Service was the last of the Gerry Anderson TV shows to feature Supermarionation. The puppet characters had become more and more lifelike as the shows themselves became more thrilling. By the time of ‘The Secret Service’ the craftsmanship of the puppet sculptors, set and prop designers and costumers was unparalleled, and this series took the usual step of using puppets and live actors to tell the stories. the results were mixed and the show itself was not even shown Nationwide.
This artwork was created for ‘Fanderon’ the Gerry and Sylvia Anderson Appreciation Society for a Secret Service Annual they put together in 2020. As response to the show’s lukewarm reception there was no TV21 comic-strip or associated annuals Fanderson did a really lovely job in creating an Annual that looked of the time.
I designed and painted the end papers which reflect the stained glass windows that might be seen in Father Unwin’s church, and filling each panel with an exciting and representative scene inspired by the series. Rocket launches and armoured tanks juxtaposed with cups of tea and the Father’s beautiful rose garden.
The Secret Service Annual is available only from Fanderson.
Watch the video ‘What If… Fantasy Model Kits ‘#14’:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v4I93Uc1mHw&t=628s
Lyons Maid Zoom commercial, starring Steve Zodiac