BBC Drama This Life Celebrates 30th Anniversary with Special Broadcasts
The beloved BBC drama This Life has reached a significant milestone, marking its 30th anniversary since it first captivated audiences in 1996. To commemorate this occasion, the BBC has announced special celebrations, including a repeat run of the series introduced by original cast member Daniela Nardini. The anniversary date is set for March 18, with both series one and two, along with the 2006 reunion special, available on iPlayer from 6am that day.
A Look Back at the Groundbreaking Series
First broadcast in 1996, This Life followed a group of young lawyers sharing a house in south London as they navigated the complexities of friendship, ambition, and life in their twenties. The show quickly became a cultural phenomenon, resonating with viewers through its realistic portrayal of young adulthood. Starring Daniela Nardini, Andrew Lincoln, Jack Davenport, Amita Dhiri, and Jason Hughes, the drama aired for two series and a one-off special in 2006, leaving a lasting impact on British television.
Where Are the Cast Members Now?
In the three decades since This Life first aired, the cast has pursued diverse and successful careers across film, television, and other fields. Here is an update on what they have been up to:
Daniela Nardini, who played barrister Anna with a tumultuous relationship with Miles, has continued her acting career with roles in Waterloo Road, Love in the 21st Century, and New Town, for which she won a Scottish BAFTA. She has also appeared on stage in productions like Camille and Top Girls. In recent years, the Glasgow-based actress has qualified as a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist, adding a new dimension to her professional life.
Jack Davenport, son of actor Nigel Davenport, portrayed the wealthy Miles. He has built an impressive career in both television and film, starring in TV shows such as Coupling, FlashForward, and The Morning Show. His film credits include The Talented Mr Ripley, Kingsman: The Secret Service, and the Pirates of the Caribbean series, where he played James Norrington. In 2025, he appeared in notable shows like The Assassin, The Forsytes, and All's Fair.
Andrew Lincoln, who got his big break as Egg, has achieved international fame. He starred alongside Keira Knightley in the film Love Actually and featured in TV series like Afterlife and Teachers. He is best known for his role as Rick Grimes in the long-running horror drama The Walking Dead and starred in ITV's Coldwater in 2025. Married with two children, Lincoln remains a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.
Amita Dhiri played legal high-flyer Milly, one of her first major TV roles. After This Life, she appeared in series such as Judge John Deed and Being April, and in 2007, she landed the role of DC Grace Dasari in the police drama The Bill. In 2024, she made a guest appearance in Bridgerton as Mrs Khanna, showcasing her continued presence on screen.
Jason Hughes portrayed Warren, a character who grappled with his sexuality. The Welsh actor has maintained a steady television career, with roles in programmes like Mine All Mine, Casualty, and Death In Paradise. He is also known for his long stint in Midsomer Murders, playing Sergeant Ben Jones from 2005 to 2013. Married to a jewellery designer, Hughes continues to work in the industry.
BBC's Anniversary Celebrations
The BBC is honouring this milestone by inviting viewers to revisit the series. Daniela Nardini will introduce the start of a repeat run of series one on BBC Four at 10pm on March 18. This broadcast, along with the availability of all episodes on iPlayer, offers fans a chance to relive the drama that defined a generation and explore how the cast has evolved over the years.
