For me, Thaw will always be Jack Regan. I never saw any of the Morse programmes when they were originally broadcast, choosing to read the books first. Then they slipped my mind until a few months ago when I saw a boxed collection available in a remaindered book store for just £10! I finished reading them all last week and decided to watch one of the Morse repeats on ITV3 (or ITV4). What a disappointment! Thaw didn't portray Morse in any way like I imagined him from the books. The script was formulaic and predictable, quite unlike any of Colin Dexter's original plots.
I liked John Thaw in Goodnight, Mr Tom, though.
I agree John Thaw in Goodnight Mr Tom overcame the ropey accent and really made this.I have it on DVD and watch it every now and again.He played Morse really well,although I have not read the books I understand the character of Morse was a drunkard and a womaniser but I did enjoy the series.I was a fan of Cavenah though I thought this was played well. With Morse I believe the Tv people changed the format to fit into a more acceptable TV role although I have seen interviews with Colin Dexter he did not complain
