<P> The Avengers is an espionage British television series created in 1961 . It initially focused on Dr. David Keel ( Ian Hendry ) , aided by John Steed ( Patrick Macnee ) . Hendry left after the first series ; Steed then became the main character , partnered by a succession of assistants . His most famous assistants were intelligent , stylish and assertive women : Cathy Gale ( Honor Blackman ) , Emma Peel ( Diana Rigg ) , and Tara King ( Linda Thorson ) . The series ran from 1961 until 1969 , screening as one - hour episodes for its entire run . The pilot episode , `` Hot Snow '' , aired on 7 January 1961 . The final episode , `` Bizarre '' , aired on 21 April 1969 in the United States , and on 21 May 1969 in London , England . </P>
<P> The Avengers is an espionage British television series created in 1961 . It initially focused on Dr. David Keel ( Ian Hendry ) , aided by John Steed ( Patrick Macnee ) . Hendry left after the first series ; Steed then became the main character , partnered by a succession of assistants . His most famous assistants were intelligent , stylish and assertive women : Cathy Gale ( Honor Blackman ) , Emma Peel ( Diana Rigg ) , and Tara King ( Linda Thorson ) . The series ran from 1961 until 1969 , screening as one - hour episodes for its entire run . The pilot episode , `` Hot Snow '' , aired on 7 January 1961 . The final episode , `` Bizarre '' , aired on 21 April 1969 in the United States , and on 21 May 1969 in London , England . </P>
who played john steed in the original avenger series
who played john steed in the original avenger series
Patrick Macnee
Patrick Macnee