Telly cop not suited to hi-tech age, says creator
TAGGART’S creator thinks the tough TV cop couldn’t be a policeman now – because he would struggle with the internet.
Writer Glenn Chandler believes the character, played by Mark McManus, would have been thrown out of the force for wrecking his computer screen.
Glenn, who celebrated the 35th anniversary of the STV detective series at Seamore Neighbourhood Cinema in Maryhill, Glasgow, said: “I don’t think Taggart would survive now.
“Can you see Taggart on Facebook and Twitter and Instagram? I can’t.
“He’d hate it and wouldn’t cope. It’s a totally different world now than it was then.”
Glenn reckons Taggart would end up taking his frustration out on the technology.
He added: “I think he BY BEVERLEY LYONS probably would smash the computer.
“We’re so accustomed now to CSI and forensics that you couldn’t do a series like Taggart now. It would have to be totally different.”
It was recently reported that Glenn was discussing a prequel to the series.
But he played down the prospect of a young Taggart series, saying: “If there are plans for it, we don’t know what these are.
“A prequel might work. It’s been done – a young Morse, Young Sherlock but why not go the other way – old Taggart? Taggart solving crimes in a retirement home.”
Glenn says he’s happy working in theatre. His new play, The Boy Under the Christmas Tree, will be performed at the Kings Head Theatre in London from December 11.