I had been out shooting the night fog and was just settling in when I received a Facebook message notification from my good friend Manu.

Emmanuel sent you a message.
(no subject)
Did you hear about Patrick McGoohan? He died today.
“I am not a number, I am a free man”

For those unfamiliar, Patrick McGoohan was the Lead, Director and oftentimes Writer for the late 1960’s television series, The Prisoner.

To say The Prisoner was groundbreaking is an understatement that belies it’s place as the crowning achievement of television programming. The Prisoner defied and defined the assumed capabilities of entertainment and indeed, the medium itself.

There had been nothing remotely like it, and when it’s final episode aired in 1968, the medium’s most brilliant mark was met, set and has remained unchallenged or unsurpassed since.

It may be a while before I can attempt to fully express my deep thanks and admiration for McGoohan, The Prisoner and the impact it’s continued to have on me for the past twenty years, as one of many… six of one, half dozen of the other. It’s late, but when I have a long moment unburdened by the need for sleep, I’ll do my best.

For now though, I simply want to pay my respects in this humble manner to the passing of Patrick McGoohan and urge the unacquainted reading this to start experiencing The Prisoner for themselves.

Rest in Peace Mr. McGoohan.

Be seeing you.

UPDATE: In his comment below, Curtis James posted this link to his brother Simon’s own posted eulogy, which concludes with a mash-up he created consisting of lines, scores and textures from The Prisoner. Great stuff — thanks to you both!

via: Manu Bonet / Wired / Obit (pdf) / The Prisoner Appreciation Society

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