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That's Life! 1973

★ 7.5/10 DocumentaryComedyFamilyNews 21 seasons · 421 eps Ended

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Overview

That is Life is a magazine-style television series that aired on BBC1. The program began its broadcast run in May 1973 and concluded in June 1994. Esther Rantzen served as the presenter for the duration of the series, supported by various co-presenters who joined the production throughout its tenure. The format of the show was designed to balance different types of content, featuring hard-hitting investigations presented alongside segments of satire. In addition to these investigative and satirical elements, the series incorporated occasional light entertainment to round out its broadcast schedule. As a long-running magazine program, the show maintained its presence on the network for over two decades. By combining serious journalism with comedic relief, the series established a distinct approach to the magazine format that remained a staple of BBC1 programming for the entirety of its existence. The production is noted for its consistent presentation style and the evolution of its supporting cast members over the course of its twenty-one-year history on the air.

Should you watch it?

“Esther Rantzen hosts this long-running magazine series blending investigative journalism with satire and light entertainment.”

Reasons to watch
  • mixes serious investigations with humor
  • long-running television history
Keep in mind
  • format may feel dated to modern viewers
  • varied segments might lack focus

Watch it if you enjoy classic British magazine-style television that balances hard-hitting reporting with entertainment.

The show features a mix of serious investigative reporting and lighthearted segments suitable for general audiences.

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Cast

Episode guide

Season 1 · 13 episodes
Season 2 · 20 episodes
Season 3 · 20 episodes
Season 4 · 20 episodes
Season 5 · 21 episodes

Frequently asked questions

What is the format of the show?

It is a magazine-style series featuring a mix of investigations, satire, and light entertainment.

Who presents the series?

The show is presented by Esther Rantzen with various co-presenters.

When did the show air?

The series was broadcast on BBC1 from May 1973 to June 1994.

What kind of content does it cover?

Content ranges from serious investigative journalism to satirical and light entertainment segments.

Is the show still in production?

No, the series concluded its run in June 1994.