Final answer:
Philip Glenister's portrayal of 'Gene Hunt' in 'Life on Mars' was well-received by audiences who found his complex character both shocking and endearing, earning Glenister significant praise for his performance.
Step-by-step explanation:
The character Gene Hunt, portrayed by Philip Glenister in the British television series Life on Mars (LOM), was received with considerable acclaim by audiences. Hunt, characterized by his politically incorrect language and rough around the edges demeanor, quickly became an iconic figure in British pop culture due to the complex layers of his personality and the humorous, albeit often controversial, lines. The audience's reaction to Gene Hunt was a mixture of amusement, shock, and eventually affection as they came to understand the depth of the character beneath his hardened exterior. His catchphrases began to circulate widely, and the nostalgic portrayal of the 1970s, through Hunt's character, struck a chord with viewers. Through the series, Gene Hunt evolved from a seemingly stereotypical tough cop into a nuanced character whose storylines often contemplated the morals and methods of policing, earning Glenister praise for his dynamic performance.