Dodger, Bonzo and the Rest

1 9 8 5 – 1 9 8 7 (UK)
13 x 30 minute episodes

This children’s drama from Thames Television was set in a foster home in London and followed the trials and tribulations of siblings Dodger (Lee Ross) – whose real name was Michael  – and his sister, Bonzo (Sophy McCallum) – who had been christened Carol.

Dodger was always looking to make some quick cash and tried his hand at dealing in antiques (thanks to Bonzo’s metal detecting efforts) and taking in donations of jumble to sell on. He also briefly tried a career as an escapologist.

The foster home was run by Steph (Jennie Goossens) and Ronnie (Mark Fletcher). Other kids at the home included Elaine (Jenny Jay), Nikos (Zeph Ponos) and Charlene (Donna Levy). In the final Christmas episode, Elaine had to rescue her friend (Kerryann White) who was trapped in an abusive relationship with Barry (Phil Daniels).

The series began life as a story aired on the Dramarama series – the only Dramarama play made into a full series in its original form.

The theme tune was Our House by Madness.

Dodger (Michael)
Lee Ross
Bonzo (Carol)
Sophy McCallum
Elaine
Jenny Jay
Ronnie
Mark Fletcher
Stephanie
Jennie Goossens
Delmont
Richard Holgate
Brian
Lyndon Haynes
Nikos
Zeph Ponos
Charlene
Donna Levy
Ian
Simon Smith
Mrs Jackson
Cheryl Hall