The XYY Man

The XYY Man originated as a series of novels by Kenneth Royce, centered on the character of William "Spider" Scott, a former cat burglar who emerges from prison determined to lead an honest life but finds his unique skills continue to attract attention from both the criminal underworld and the British secret service. Scott possesses an extra "y" chromosome, which is said to predispose him to criminal behavior—despite his efforts to reform, he is seemingly genetically inclined to return to his old ways. Royce's original novels were *The XYY Man*, *Concrete Boot*, *The Miniatures Frame*, *Spider Underground*, and *Trap Spider*. He returned to the character in the 1980s with *The Crypto Man* and *The Mosley Receipt*. Recurring characters in the series included Scott's patient girlfriend, Maggie Parsons; Fairfax, the head of the British secret service; Detective Sergeant George Bulman, the determined policeman intent on seeing Scott behind bars; journalist Ray Lynch; gay photographer Bluie Palmer; and KGB chief Kransouski. In 1976, Granada TV adapted the first of Royce's novels for British television in a three-part series, with Stephen Yardley portraying Scott. The character's adventures resonated with audiences, leading to ten additional episodes in 1977. Scott frequently finds himself drawn into assignments for the enigmatic MI5 officer Fairfax. Pursuing him relentlessly is his nemesis, Bulman, and his assistant, Detective Constable Derek Willis.

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