Key facts
- The "7 Up" documentary series, which began in 1964, is concluding with its final installment, "70 Up."
- The series has followed 14 individuals from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds for six decades.
- Director Michael Apted, who passed away in 2019, was instrumental in the series' continuation.
- Some participants, like Jackie Bassett, expressed concerns about typecasting and the director's questioning style.
- The final episode, "70 Up," is directed by Asif Kapadia and airs on ITV.
- Two cast members, Lynn Johnson and Nick Hitchon, have died since the series began.
The groundbreaking documentary series "7 Up," which has chronicled the lives of 14 individuals from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds since 1964, is set to conclude with its final installment, "70 Up," airing on ITV.
Initially conceived as a one-off by director Paul Almond and researcher Michael Apted, the series aimed to explore the impact of class on life trajectories in Britain. Apted took over as director and continued to film the participants every seven years, capturing their journeys through childhood, adolescence, and adulthood.
Over six decades, viewers have followed the evolving lives of the participants, including Neil's struggles with mental health and homelessness, and Jackie Bassett's reflections on her experiences with the series. Some participants, like John Brisby, expressed significant dissatisfaction with the show, feeling typecast. Jackie Bassett also confronted Apted over his questioning style, particularly regarding gender roles.
Michael Apted, who became a successful Hollywood director but always returned to "7 Up" as his most significant achievement, passed away in 2019. Two cast members, Lynn Johnson and Nick Hitchon, have also died. The final installment, "70 Up," is directed by Asif Kapadia, known for his work on documentaries about Amy Winehouse and Diego Maradona. Jackie Bassett expressed initial apprehension about a new director but found Kapadia's approach more conversational.