MacTaggart's life began in Scotland, where he would later establish a prolific career in television, producing, directing, or writing an astonishing number of individual television plays or episodes. Prior to his success in television, MacTaggart's journey in the industry began as an actor and radio producer for BBC Scotland. This early experience would serve as a solid foundation for his future endeavors.
As the years went by, MacTaggart's passion for television production only grew stronger, and in 1968, he took a bold step by co-founding Kestrel Productions, a groundbreaking independent television drama production company in Britain. This innovative venture marked a significant milestone in the history of British television, as it was the first of its kind.
Just two months shy of his untimely passing at the age of 46, MacTaggart received the highest honor in his field, the Society of Film and Television Arts' Desmond Davis Award, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to television.
