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UFO

In my opinion, this is a much under-rated series.

When we filmed UFO, it attracted some amazing stories
from real life.  We were sent photographs and film
material of possible UFO sightings.  We were the
forerunner for the excellent X-Files.  There was
even talk of a Pentagon conspiracy...

Michael Billington as Col Paul Foster in the sauna scene from Ordeal

UFO introduced Michael Billington in his first leading
TV role when he played Colonel Paul Foster. 

Michael went on to star in The Onedin Line as Daniel Fogarty.

Michael also went on to play the villian Sergi Barzov in the
James Bond movie The Spy Who Loved Me.
Ed Bishop as Cmdr Ed Straker in his blonde wig

Ed Bishop, who played Commander Ed Straker was a
popular guest at sci-fi conventions.

The blonde wig is also a collector’s piece!  I have fond
memories of Ed sitting at the wig maker’s as I orchestrated
his famous Straker cut.

So Ed was somewhat apprehensive to say the least, when
he first tried on his blonde wig.

It was very “pretty” and made Ed look as if he was “in drag”. He visibly relaxed,
however, when his “Straker” cut took shape. Ed was gradually transformed with his
new look. 

In fact, it was so successful that when he left the set, minus his blonde wig
and tan make-up, nobody recognised him. He left behind the blonde, blue-eyed
heart-throb and assumed his low-key persona.
Gabrielle Drake as Lt Gay Ellis in her purple wig

Gabrielle Drake, who starred as Moonbase Commander
Lieutenant Gay Ellis in one of the famous purple wigs.

Gabrielle has been a special guest at Italian UFO
conventions.

For more information on the show and of course more
info on the blonde and purple wigs please see the
chapter on UFO in My FAB Years.

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