ITV’s landmark 7 Up documentary series has launched its final outing after 63 years. The show started following the lives of 10 boys and four girls in England when they were seven years old, and has returned every seven years since. As the final season 70 Up reaches its conclusion, seven people tell us what it has meant to them over the decades – along with pictures of themselves contrasting their appearance now with their childhood selves.
The sadness of Suzy as a teenager and seeing her become more content and confident was a standout moment. As was Bruce becoming a “missionary” in his own way by teaching. And, of course, Neil, whose life has often been troubled but is probably the most interesting.
It has been a privilege to be able to compare myself with the participants and look at my own journey. It has made me realise that life, whether you’re rich or poor, is a sum of experience, even if seemingly mundane. In many ways, it’s not education or privilege that makes life interesting, but what you do with opportunities as they present themselves.
The most engaging characters have been those who have challenged themselves, pursued an ambition or who have had difficulties to overcome. Judith Barton, 70, Surrey That Neil, who was the most adorable, magical-thinking seven-year-old, would have mental health crises had a deeply moving effect on me. His challenge was one that could have affected any of the participants, regardless of class and background.
And Nick achieved so much despite relatively humble beginnings but gave one of the most impactful statements – that the birth of his son was his greatest moment. As the series progressed, it seemed that the real measure of success was not academic or material achievements after all, but familial love and finding peace. Sheila Lambe, 63, Scotland It was Bruce I related to most.
His disposition, his search for meaning. I was an overseas volunteer and related strongly to his search for local connections later in his life. The series changed my life.
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