The Monocled Mutineer

The first part of The Monocled Mutineer was shown on 31 August 1986. The four-part drama, written by Alan Bleasdale, was adapted from a book by William Allison and John Fairley. It told the story of Percy Toplis and of the British army mutiny that took place in 1917 at Etaples, on the eve of the Battle of Passchendaele. However, claims that the drama was a true story were disputed and led to accusations of left-wing bias that overshadowed the programme itself.

The row over the authenticity of the story developed after Julian Putkowski, historical consultant on the programme, said it was full of errors and that there was no proof Toplis was ever involved with the mutiny. In response Bleasdale said "I have said from the word go that my piece is a work of fiction". Bill Cotton, Managing Director of Television, said The Monocled Mutineer illuminated "the greater truth about World War I". This last view was shared by many viewers, who praised Paul McGann's outstanding performance as Toplis.

The fallout from the furore contributed to the early departure of BBC Director General Alasdair Milne the following year. Bleasdale returned to historical drama in 2011 with The Sinking of the Laconia, which was acclaimed for its accuracy and humanity.