Series 2, Quest 5 end at the hands of Mogdred in Level 2.

Mogdred

By Keith McDonald

Mogdred was the dark side of Merlin and the principal 'opponent' to a successful quest during the early years of Knightmare.


Mogdred was the dark side of Merlin's nature and his magic. He appeared in the lower levels to intimidate players and lead them astray.

I enjoy observing fear. I shall enjoy observing yours.

Mogdred

Mogdred's motivation was creating fear rather than simply ending quests without a challenge. He often woke or summoned threats that made the surroundings more dangerous.

He also demanded teams to pledge allegiance to him, tempting them with offers of powerful spells and fewer restrictions on the use of magic.

Mogdred, the alter-ego of Merlin, as played by John Woodnutt in Series 2 of Knightmare (1988).
Mogdred in Series 2 (1988)

Influence

Mogdred did not appear at all in Series 1, and infrequently in Series 3 (as few teams reached Level 3). Consequently, he was given some influence in Level 2.

In Series 4, there was a series of confrontations once a player reached Level 3. Mogdred would appear at the Falling Bridge, and then again at a future point to exact revenge.

The collapsing bridge, based on a handpainted scene by David Rowe, as shown on Series 4 of Knightmare (1990).
Mogdred in Series 4 (1990)

Ultimately, Mogdred did show killer instinct.

In Series 2, he taunts a dungeoneer in one of his 'playpens', where the quest ends. In Series 4, he appears in person and sends a magic sword to end the game.

You Might Also Like...

Series 2 Quest 3

Series 2, Quest 3. Christopher is intimidated by Mogdred as he examines clues.

Team 3: Christopher, Kenneth, Paul and Christopher from St Helens.

Children's TV on Trial (2007)

Courtroom trial watching knightmare

Knightmare appeared in the 1980s instalment of Children's TV on Trial, broadcast in May 2007 on BBC Four. The feature included interviews with Tim Child and Hugo Myatt.

Catacombite

The catacombite challenge from the first three series of Knightmare.

A giant ghoulish creature made of bones was a menacing threat. Dungeoneers had to subdue it or avoid it to escape.

See Also