The first episode is without Robert Shaw as Captain Dan Tempest. It was always regarded that the actor was not available and the script had to be hastily rejigged.
Captain Woodes Rogers (Alec Clunes) has been appointed as the new Governor of New Providence.
Captain Rogers is a reformed pirate himself and in order to secure the safety of New Providence and it's future prosperity. He brings with him a King's pardon for all sailors who give up piracy.
The pirate Blackbeard is not convinced of the pardon. Suspecting it is a trick. Other pirates such as Captain Hornigold are tempted by the pardon and a chance to go straight.
Rogers and Blackbeard go toe to toe over the matter with swords.
There is some silliness with Lt Edward Beamish getting tricked by the escaping Blackbeard. He fires on his new boss.
Apparently different pilot episodes were shot at the time focussing on different characters. It was soon regarded by the television executives that Dan Tempest as played by Robert Shaw had great potential.
Captain Woodes Rogers (Alec Clunes) has been appointed as the new Governor of New Providence.
Captain Rogers is a reformed pirate himself and in order to secure the safety of New Providence and it's future prosperity. He brings with him a King's pardon for all sailors who give up piracy.
The pirate Blackbeard is not convinced of the pardon. Suspecting it is a trick. Other pirates such as Captain Hornigold are tempted by the pardon and a chance to go straight.
Rogers and Blackbeard go toe to toe over the matter with swords.
There is some silliness with Lt Edward Beamish getting tricked by the escaping Blackbeard. He fires on his new boss.
Apparently different pilot episodes were shot at the time focussing on different characters. It was soon regarded by the television executives that Dan Tempest as played by Robert Shaw had great potential.
