The F.B.I. (TV Series) The Tormentors (1966) User Reviews

Great cast, and more

[tforbes-2 · 10/10 · 15 June 2019]

"The Tormentors" is definitely one of the much better episodes of the series, and of the first season. We get treated by Lew Ayres, Ed Asner, Judee Morton and Kurt Russell as the focus of the episode.

But what may make this episode stand out is that this marks the first appearance of William Reynolds. In this season, and in Season 2, he has guest roles, and has yet to make his mark as SAC Tom Colby, which he would be so known for in the series' run. From the standpoint of the series, the episode was an omen of what was to follow in terms of its regular cast.

And like other Season 1 episodes, there is no opening or closing narration. Viewers would have to wait until that September to hear the voice of Marvin Miller. Not that it really mattered. This is a fine episode!

First appearance of William Reynolds

[tforbes-2 · 10/10 · 16 March 2016]

"The Tormentors" is an interesting episode with a very good cast.

A very good cast!

Kurt Russell, who turns 65 as of this writing, plays the kidnap victim. Lew Ayres plays his wealthy father, and Edward Asner, Wayne Rogers and Judee Morton also show up.

Two notable people make their first appearance: Director Jesse Hibbs, who would go on to helm many an episode of this series through to 1970; and William Reynolds, who plays Franklin Benton. Mr. Reynolds gives a memorable performance, and would go on to guest shots in seasons two and nine--and play cast regular Tom Colby from seasons three through eight.

A side note: Lew Ayres' role as a father was something of a mirror to his real life situation. After two failed marriages, he wed Diana Hall in 1964 and became a father during this time period!

Overall, a very good episode that would be a harbinger of the show's future!