ITV is bringing its landmark 70 Up documentary series to an end, with the final instalment set to air later this year. The broadcaster has confirmed the project will conclude with two feature-length episodes, each running for 90 minutes, directed by Oscar-winning filmmaker Asif Kapadia.
Final episodes and archival specials
The two films are due to air on ITV1 and ITVX, although a broadcast date has not yet been revealed. Viewers will also see two additional programmes accompanying the final chapter, which will explore archival material and revisit stories about people filmed at age 70 in previous decades, including footage of individuals born during the Victorian era.
The series began in 1964 with 7 Up, in which 14 children from different backgrounds were filmed at age 7. Cameras returned approximately every seven years, documenting their changing circumstances, relationships, careers, and ambitions as they grew older.
A six-decade record of British life
What started as a documentary about childhood aspirations became a record of British life, with participants followed for more than 60 years. Kapadia inherited the series after the death of Michael Apted, who directed the majority of the instalments and had been closely associated with the project throughout its history.
The Oscar winner has previously called the vast collection of footage gathered throughout the participants' lives his favourite documentary project of all time. In a statement, Kapadia said: "In 2014, I named the Up Series as my favourite documentary of all time. Who knew that two decades later I would have the incredible honour and privilege to be asked to direct 70 Up, the legendary documentary series. I love the show!"
Contributors and farewell
By the time the final films arrive, two of the original 14 contributors, Lynn Johnson and Nick Hitchon, have died. Charles Furneaux is also expected to return for 70 Up, having last appeared in the series in 21 Up.
Other participants connected with the final chapter include Sue Davis, Bruce Balden, Tony Walker, Jackie Bassett, John Brisby, Andrew Brackfield, Suzy Lusk, Paul Kligerman, Symon Basterfield, Neil Hughes and Peter Davies.
Jo Clinton-Davis, ITV’s director of factual, confirmed that 70 Up will bring the extraordinary project to its conclusion, describing the final chapter as an epic and emotional farewell to one of television’s most significant documentary series. 70 Up will air soon on ITV1 and ITVX.
