Martin Shaw, the beloved star of 'The Professionals,' has opened up about a long-standing and acrimonious feud with his co-star, Lewis Collins. The revelation, made in a recent interview, details a heated confrontation that led to years of frosty relations between the two actors.

Shaw, who played Detective Superintendent Jack Stratton in the popular 1980s action series, described a specific incident that sparked the conflict. According to Shaw, Collins, who portrayed Bodie, reacted poorly to something Shaw said, resulting in a profanity-laced rebuke. “He told me to f*** off and he never forgave me for the next four years,” Shaw recounted, painting a picture of a deeply personal and protracted disagreement.

The show, known for its thrilling storylines and charismatic leads, was a massive success in the UK and internationally. However, behind the scenes, it seems, the relationship between Shaw and Collins was far from smooth. Shaw’s account sheds a new light on the dynamics of the production and offers a glimpse into the challenges of working alongside strong personalities.

While 'The Professionals' enjoyed a resurgence in popularity through reruns and streaming services, this revelation adds another layer of intrigue to the show's legacy. It raises questions about the impact of personal conflicts on professional collaborations and the pressures faced by actors in the spotlight. Fans of the series are likely to be surprised and perhaps even saddened to learn of the animosity between two of its most iconic figures.

Shaw’s willingness to discuss this difficult period of his career reflects a sense of closure and perhaps a desire to set the record straight. The story serves as a reminder that even in the world of entertainment, relationships can be complex and fraught with tension. It also underscores the enduring appeal of 'The Professionals,' a series that continues to captivate audiences decades after its original run, now with a more nuanced understanding of the people behind the screen.

While Shaw doesn't elaborate on the specific trigger for Collins’ outburst, the impact of the incident is clear: a four-year period of strained relations that significantly affected their working dynamic. The details, however painful, provide a fascinating insight into the complexities of the entertainment industry and the personal toll that fame and success can take.

This revelation is sure to generate renewed interest in 'The Professionals' and spark conversations among fans about the behind-the-scenes realities of their favorite shows. It’s a testament to the power of storytelling, both on and off the screen, and the enduring fascination with the lives of those who bring those stories to life.