David Stirling’s Incredible Survival in POW Camps Revealed
The story of David Stirling’s resilience during his time as a POW unfolds
David Stirling, SAS Rogue Heroes, Colditz Castle, Gavi, World War II, BBC
London: SAS Rogue Heroes is back on BBC One, and it’s got everyone talking. The show features Paddy Mayne, played by Jack O’Connell, taking charge after David Stirling, portrayed by Connor Swindells, gets captured.
During the action in Sicily, Stirling had a wild experience at the Gavi prisoner of war camp. In real life, he was caught during a mission in Tunisia back in January 1943.
By that time, he was already known as ‘The Phantom Major’ to the Germans. After being captured, he tried to escape four times, which eventually led him to the infamous Colditz Castle, thought to be escape-proof.
He stayed there until the war ended, and when he got back in August 1944, he was given the job of setting up the Colditz British Intelligence Unit.
His capture worried his troops, fearing it might mean the end of their unit. But thanks to Paddy’s leadership, that didn’t happen.
One of his escape attempts was a mass breakout from Gavi, often called the ‘Italian Colditz,’ using a tunnel from a cistern.
Colditz Castle also housed some notable prisoners, including Winston Churchill’s nephew and King George VI’s nephew. Today, it’s a European Youth Hostel, attracting visitors from all over and hosting events.
In discussing his character’s role in the new season, Connor Swindells shared that David is stuck in his cell while Paddy leads the action. He mentioned feeling a bit left out, just like he did while filming.
David’s frustration is real; he’s used to being in control but now has to let go. It’s a new challenge for him, and for Connor as an actor, it’s a fun twist to explore.
Catch SAS Rogue Heroes on BBC iPlayer if you want to see how it all unfolds!