Watch Diamonds

Diamonds is a television series from the late 80s that aired on ABC. Starring Nicholas Campbell as Mike Devitt, John Rhys-Davies as Harry Rule, and Peggy Smithhart as Claudia, the show follows a trio of diamond smugglers as they pull off daring heists and navigate a dangerous world of international crime.

Mike Devitt is a former cop turned criminal who specializes in stealing diamonds. He's a smooth-talking ladies' man with an easy smile and an infectious charm that helps him get away with just about anything. John Rhys-Davies plays Harry Rule, a British ex-soldier and diamond expert who acts as the brains of the operation. He's a gruff, no-nonsense guy with a dry sense of humor and a talent for devising elaborate heists. Peggy Smithhart rounds out the trio as Claudia, a beautiful and cunning woman who uses her looks and her brains to help her partners in crime.

The show takes place in various locations around the world, as Mike, Harry, and Claudia pull off heists in places like Paris, Hong Kong, and Amsterdam. Along the way, they encounter a colorful cast of characters, from other criminals to law enforcement officials trying to bring them down.

One of the things that sets Diamonds apart from other crime shows of the era is its emphasis on the glamorous side of the criminal underworld. Yes, there are plenty of tense action sequences and thrilling heists, but there's also a lot of attention paid to the luxurious settings where the characters operate. There are fancy hotels, chic nightclubs, and decadent parties, all of which add to the show's glamorous vibe.

Another strength of Diamonds is its characters. While the show is primarily focused on the three main characters – Mike, Harry, and Claudia – there are plenty of other memorable figures who cross their paths. From a flamboyant fashion designer to a ruthless mob boss, the supporting cast helps create a rich and complex world that feels fully-realized.

Of course, it wouldn't be a diamond heist show without plenty of intrigue and double-crosses. Throughout the series, Mike, Harry, and Claudia are constantly trying to outsmart one another, as well as the various other criminals and authorities they encounter. There are plenty of tense moments as characters face off against one another, unsure who they can trust and who might be planning to stab them in the back.

Although Diamonds only ran for one season, it made a lasting impact on viewers who appreciated its blend of high-stakes crime and glamorous settings. It's an overlooked gem of 80s television that's worth revisiting for fans of the genre.