Archie MacDonald (Monarch of the Glen)

Archibald Horatio Hector "Archie" MacDonald is a fictional character in the BBC TV series Monarch of the Glen. Archie is played by Scottish actor Alastair Mackenzie.

Archie is called back to Glenbogle from London by his mother, Molly, as his father is dying. Hector MacDonald, however, is not dying; he has a cold. Archie remains at Glenbogle when Molly and Hector tell Archie he is now Laird and Archie discovers their mounting debts, which could lead to the family losing their home. This news does not go down well with girlfriend/business partner, Justine Thatcher who remains in London.

During his stay he develops a love-hate relationship with local headteacher Katrina Finlay who opposes the 'ruling classes' but helps Archie and the MacDonald family try and save their home. Archie and Justine eventually split when the long-distance puts a strain on their relationship, and Archie realises he can't leave Glenbogle. As Archie and Katrina grow more attracted to one another, their different outlooks in life and misunderstandings keep them apart. Glenbogle's housekeeper, Lexie, eventually pushes them together even though Lexie is secretly in love with Archie. As a result, Katrina and Archie get together but Katrina decides to take a job in London, leaving Archie in Scotland.

At the end of Series 2, Archie's position as Laird is threatened by American Joe MacDonald, but Archie beats Joe in the Chieftain's Challenge. After Glenbogle's huge debts mount, Lascelles Bank sends one of their managers, Stella Moon to turn the estate around. Archie works well with Stella as they both have a common aim to repay the bank, although Stella ruffles a few feathers with Hector. Stella begins to fall for Glenbogle's charm and Archie, but fails to win his heart as he realises he loves Lexie who has been supportive and caring throughout.

Archie and Lexie get married in Series 4 and Glenbogle's money problems are resolved when it turns into a profitable estate. When Hector dies, Archie and his sister, Lizzie, travel to Nepal to climb a mountain in honour of their father. Lexie remains in Scotland as the temporary laird. After the climb, Archie leaves for New Zealand to run a vineyard and Lexie goes to join him. The lairdship of Glenbogle goes to his half-brother, Paul Bowman.

Series career

Series 1-5 - 43 episodes

• Series 1: episodes 1-8 (all), 8 episodes
• Series 2: episodes 1-8 (all), 8 episodes
• Series 3: episodes 1-11 (all), 11 episodes
• Series 4: episodes 1-10 (all), 10 episodes
• Series 5: episodes 1-6, 6 episodes