"The Avengers" is represented by Emma Peel, I think.... do you think that's more of the PC angle or was she the more memorable character? I only very vaguely remember the show, it's a little before my time....
Hmmm, Emma Peel was a role model for me. But I loved John Steed, the gentleman's gentleman spy, too.
Speaking of cool British imports: Number 6, from The Prisoner. "I am not a number, I am a free man!"