Stafford Hildred

Shaw became mega-famous in the 70's show, The Professionals (check out the thousands of clips and music compilations on youtube), then came a two-year run in a play about Elvis' last hours, big budget mini-series on Captain Scott, Cecil Rhodes and The Scarlet Pimpernel, the Judge John Deed series, then having P.D. James herself approve him for the role of Adam Dalgliesh... the guy has had a long and successful career.
This bio would be good for anyone wanting the basics of Shaw's life, and it was clearly written with his cooperation, which means that there are plenty of quotes directly from him, but also means that this bio can read like it's Shaw's own cheerleading squad in places. Three marriages come to an end with barely a blip, television shows that are on the top of the ratings suddenly aren't mentioned again, and dates are given on what seems to be a need-to-know-basis. This certainly isn't the most professional (oh, ha ha) job I've seen, but it isn't the worst either, and it does have some info I hadn't seen elsewhere. Recommended for fans.… (mer)

When I read, in the introduction, that this was an unauthorized biography, my heart sank. I am sure that we've all read a biography of this nature where, it becomes obvious after a couple of pages, that the author had done little more than glance at a copy of the Radio Times, in the name of research.
Fortunately, a couple of pages told me that this was not one of those. The authors have spoken to many friends, members of David's family - and, even DJ, himself. The book is balanced: although most of the anecdotes are complementary, a smattering of detrimental tales give the rounded view.
Whilst I am decrepit enough to remember Do Not Adjust Your Set, and all the early appearances, there was plenty about Mr Jason that I did not know. His choice of Jason when he was unable to retain his given name of David White in applying for his Equity card (It was a mark of respect for his twin brother, Jason, who died at two weeks of age). He has, sadly, become something of a recluse in later years as the public have hounded this genius. He seems to be another example of the clown who cries in private: a pity when all that he has given is laughter.… (mer)