Catch up TV

Series 9: The Prisoner of Portmeirion

What draws thousands of people to a surreal, Italian-inspired village in north Wales each year? It's not just the breathtaking scenery or whimsical architecture, although Portmeirion is all of that and more. It's something harder to define: a feeling of connection, a sense of belonging and a shared love of a 1960s sci-fi TV show that still speaks to people today.\n\nThis documentary invites viewers into a vivid, touching world, where nostalgia, creativity and community come together. At its heart is the annual convention hosted by devoted fans of The Prisoner – a cult classic that transformed this eccentric Welsh village into an iconic backdrop for one of television’s most original dramas.\n\nOrganised by long-standing fan club Six of One, the weekend is a labour of love, kept alive by people who’ve found meaning, friendship and joy in their shared passion. Through theatrical re-enactments, costume parades and moments of quiet reflection, we see how a TV show has become the foundation for a thriving, intergenerational and international community.\n\nWe follow the committee and club members as they prepare for the big weekend - the nerves, the planning, the anticipation - and then immerse ourselves in the spectacle: the surreal human chess match, the satirical election parade and shared rituals that bring the show’s themes to life.\n\nFor many attendees, it’s not just about remembering the past - it’s about finding space for creativity and connection in the present. Some have been coming since the 1970s while for others, it’s their first visit. But what unites them is a love of storytelling and the feeling that this strange, beautiful place is a little pocket of freedom.\n\nThe film features reflections from original cast members Annette Andre and Derren Nesbitt, who recall the shoot with fondness and share thoughts on the show's legacy. Adding a personal touch, musician and broadcaster Jools Holland, a lifelong admirer of The Prisoner, reflects on the impact the series had on him and the enduring magic of Portmeirion itself.

Source: BBC 2