”Big Deal” was a TV show from the UK that hooked viewers in the ’80s. It was about the world of gambling. The star was Ray Brooks, who played Robbie Box, a gambler. The BBC made the show. It showed Robbie’s life, full of the thrill and risk of gambling. People loved the theme song by Bobby G too.
Show Details:
“Big Deal” began on BBC1 in 1984. It had three seasons and 30 episodes, ending in 1986. Geoff McQueen, who also worked on “The Bill” and “Give Us a Break,” made the show. It was about Robbie, a London gambler, and his life with bets, money troubles, and personal ties.
The show felt real. It showed gambling not in fancy casinos, but in everyday places. Robbie Box’s life was a mix of hope for big wins and the troubles that come with gambling too much.
Robbie Box:
Ray Brooks played Robbie, the main gambler. He was good-looking and smooth but made bad choices. Robbie always looked for the next big win. His betting habit got him into money problems and hurt his relationships.
Robbie was deep and real. Brooks made him likable, despite his mistakes. The character showed the excitement and danger of gambling.
The Plot and Themes:
The show was about Robbie’s gamble-centered life and how it hurt him. Each episode brought new tests, like card games or horse races. Robbie tried to keep away from debt collectors too.
“Big Deal” didn’t make gambling look good. It showed the bad side, like addiction and loss. The show told how Robbie’s habit harmed his family and friends. It gave us a look into London’s gambling world in the ’80s.
Other Characters:
Jan Oliver (Sharon Duce): Jan was Robbie’s girlfriend. She cared for him but had a hard time with his gambling. She gave Robbie love and stability, which he often ignored. Jan showed how gambling can hurt families.
Vi Box (Pamela Cundell): Vi, Robbie’s mom, was a tough, loud character. She loved Robbie a lot, even though she knew his faults. Vi added humor to the show and showed how Robbie’s life was different from the older, more traditional ways.
Tommy (James Ottaway): Tommy was Robbie’s older gambling friend. He gave Robbie tips, which Robbie usually didn’t take. Tommy showed what could happen if Robbie kept gambling.
Dick Mayer (Stephan Tate): Dick was part of Robbie’s gambling group. He was funny and street-smart. Dick was close to Robbie and helped him in tough spots. He showed the friendship in the gambling world.
Gil Roach (Frank Mills): Gil was a bookie who had a tricky relationship with Robbie. They did not trust each other much. Gil’s role showed the darker side of gambling.
Important Episodes:
There were episodes where Robbie won or lost big. They showed how gambling can give short joy but long-term trouble. In one memorable episode, Robbie wins a lot of money. He thinks he has made it, but he can’t quit while he’s ahead. This shows how gambling can pull you back in.
Another big part of the show was about Robbie choosing between Jan and gambling. It showed his inner fight and how hard it is to quit gambling.
The Impact of “Big Deal”:
“Big Deal” stands out in TV history as it showed the real side of gambling. It looked at how gambling can hurt people and society. Robbie’s character showed what many people really face.
The show led to more dramas about normal people and their problems, from addiction to taking risks. It ended with Robbie still fighting his habit, which made it feel true to life.
Ray Brooks’ acting as Robbie is still remembered. “Big Deal” is seen as a classic British drama. It showed the thrill and risk of gambling in a way that was both fun and serious.
In conclusion, Big Deal remains a memorable piece of British television history, offering a window into the life of a gambler caught between hope and despair. With unforgettable characters, heartfelt drama, and an unflinching look at the consequences of addiction, it continues to resonate as a reflection of life’s inherent risks, mirrored in the highs and lows of Robbie Box’s unforgettable journey.
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