"The perfect blend of pagan mysticism, 80s synth-folk, and grounded swordplay that redefined the hooded man for a modern generation."
Richard Carpenter’s Robin of Sherwood remains a definitive reimagining of the Outlaw of Sherwood, introducing a gritty realism and mystical depth previously unseen in the legend. By blending historical detail with Celtic mythology—most notably through the shamanic figure Herne the Hunter—the series transformed a simple folk tale into a spiritual struggle between light and darkness. The production is equally famous for its atmospheric Clannad soundtrack and the daring decision to replace its lead actor, shifting from Michael Praed to Jason Connery without losing its soul. This ITV masterpiece set the visual and thematic blueprint for all subsequent adaptations, proving that the myth of Robin Hood could be both a political rebellion and a haunting, supernatural epic for the ages.
| Watched? | # | Air Date | Episode Name |
|---|---|---|---|
| E1 | Apr 05, 1986 | Herne's Son (1) | |
| E2 | Apr 12, 1986 | Herne's Son (2) | |
| E3 | Apr 19, 1986 | The Power of Albion | |
| E4 | Apr 26, 1986 | The Inheritance | |
| E5 | May 03, 1986 | The Sheriff of Nottingham | |
| E6 | May 10, 1986 | The Cross of St. Ciricus | |
| E7 | May 17, 1986 | Cromm Cruac | |
| E8 | May 24, 1986 | The Betrayal | |
| E9 | May 31, 1986 | Adam Bell | |
| E10 | Jun 07, 1986 | The Pretender | |
| E11 | Jun 14, 1986 | Rutterkin | |
| E12 | Jun 21, 1986 | The Time of the Wolf (1) | |
| E13 | Jun 28, 1986 | The Time of the Wolf (2) |
Franchise Status: Cult classic status with ongoing audio drama expansions and occasional revival discussions.
Robin of Sherwood remains a definitive pillar of fantasy television, having concluded its influential run on ITV. Richard Carpenter's creation effectively reinvented the outlaw mythos by blending historical grit with Celtic mysticism and a haunting Clannad soundtrack. This specific synthesis established a visual and tonal blueprint for medieval dramas that followed, moving away from the swashbuckling tropes of earlier decades toward a more grounded yet supernatural aesthetic. Its dual-protagonist approach, transitioning from Michael Praed to Jason Connery, remains a unique narrative experiment that successfully explored the idea of Robin Hood as a title rather than a single man.
The series remains a rewatch staple because of its atmospheric depth and the chemistry of its ensemble cast, particularly the menacing performances of Nickolas Grace and Robert Addie. Fans continue to return to Sherwood for its philosophical exploration of the struggle between pagan traditions and oppressive state power. By grounding the legend in the damp forests of England while simultaneously embracing the esoteric, the show captured a sense of timelessness that prevents it from feeling dated. Its legacy is preserved through a dedicated fanbase and the continued expansion of its universe via licensed audio plays that reunite the original cast.