Zodiac was a six-part series transmitted by ITV in 1974. Starring Anton Rogers and Anouska Hempel as cynical detective David Gradley and his astrologer associate Esther Jones, the unusual astrological premise set this show apart from the humdrum detective dramas of the time. Little seen since its original broadcast, the series has garnered something of a cult status.
Zodiac (Season 1)
Death of a Crab (Episode 1)
Writer: Roger Marshall
Air date: 1974-02-25
Runtime: 60 min
Overview: Cynical detective David Gradley meets sassy astrologer Esther Jones, first suspecting her of murder, then finding her skills useful in clearing up an intriguing case.
The Cool Aquarian (Episode 2)
Writer: Roger Marshall
Air date: 1974-03-04
Runtime: 60 min
Overview: Jealousy, highly unethical business practises and the kidnap of a young woman stretch Gradley's analytical powers, and Esther's astrological skills, to the full. Neville the butler provides both comic relief and human insight to the case.
The Strength of Gemini (Episode 3)
Writer: Philip Broadley
Air date: 1974-03-11
Runtime: 60 min
Overview: Furious that a conman is using her astrological skills to target his victims, Esther inveigles Gradley into a plot to unmask the rogue.
Saturn's Rewards (Episode 4)
Writer: Pat Hoddinott
Air date: 1974-03-18
Runtime: 60 min
Overview: An MP's daughter wants to marry a man the MP knows is a murderer – but he can't reveal what he knows without jeopardising himself.
Sting, Sting, Scorpio! (Episode 5)
Writer: Roger Marshall
Air date: 1974-03-25
Runtime: 60 min
Overview: Very much against Gradley's wishes, Esther takes the place of a murdered Brighton astrologer and clairvoyant in order to find out who killed her – thus exposing herself to the same risk.
The Horns of the Moon (Episode 6)
Writer: Peter Yeldham
Air date: 1974-04-01
Runtime: 60 min
Overview: When Tony Weston is accused of the murder of his father, CEO of a merchant bank, Esther is sure he's innocent – his birth chart proves him incapable of any such violence. With four other possible suspects, finding the real culprit might be tricky.
Seasons
Episodes 6