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Banacek is a American detective television series that originally aired from 1972 to 1974 on NBC. It starred George Peppard as Thomas Banacek, a Polish-American private investigator from Boston, Massachusetts. The show was produced by Universal Television and created by Anthony Wilson and Ivan Goff.

The series focuses on Banacek as he solves complex and difficult cases that other detectives cannot unravel. He is known for his intellect and his ability to think outside of the box, famously saying “There is no such thing as a perfect crime, I can always find the flaw.”

The character of Thomas Banacek is unique in that he is known for his love of fine living, including his passion for expensive cars and stylish clothing. He also has a smart and sophisticated demeanor that is offset by his aggressive and tough exterior.

Banacek is assisted in his cases by his butler, Felix Mulholland, played by Murray Matheson, who often provides comic relief to the show. Banacek also frequently collaborates with his friend and insurance executive, Carlie Kirkland, played by Christine Belford.

Each episode begins with the theft of a valuable item, such as a rare stamp, a priceless painting or a piece of jewelry. Banacek is then hired by the victim’s insurance company to find the missing items and determine how they were stolen. Banacek’s expertise in this area enables him to reveal the details of the crime that led to the theft and retrieve the stolen items.

One of the most memorable elements of the show is Banacek’s signature style of solving cases. He often adapts his methods to match the personality and motivations of the criminal he is pursuing. Throughout the series, Banacek uses an array of tactics, including psychology, bluffing, and even magic tricks to solve his cases.

The show was notable for featuring a strong, independent female character in Carlie Kirkland, who frequently works alongside Banacek to solve cases. Despite being from different backgrounds and professions, Banacek and Kirkland share an easy camaraderie and often engage in witty banter.

Banacek was a popular show during its run, achieving over 22 million viewers per week. It was well-received by audiences for its intrigue, clever writing, and characters. The show was also notable for its unique opening sequence that features an animated Banacek driving his car through various obstacles, culminating in his arrival at the scene of the crime.

In conclusion, Banacek is an iconic detective show that captured the imagination of viewers during its tenure on NBC. Featuring a memorable protagonist, complex cases, and a talented supporting cast, it remains a favorite of fans of detective dramas.