Michael Apted is an English director, producer, and screenwriter whose career has spanned five decades, covering both television and film. Apted is best known for his work on the groundbreaking British television series Up Series, a project that has followed the lives of fourteen British citizens since 1964.
Apted began his career in the television industry in the mid-1960s. His first job was as a researcher on the documentary series World in Action and he quickly rose through the ranks to become a director. He then moved to Granada Television where he worked on Coronation Street and other series.
In 1964, Apted was asked to work on a documentary series that would follow the lives of fourteen British children as they aged. This project, entitled Seven Up!, was an instant success and Apted has continued to make a new documentary every seven years, charting the lives of the fourteen participants. The series has continued to the present day, with the most recent installment being 63 Up (2019).
Apted’s career in feature films began in the 1980s. He directed the acclaimed historical drama Agatha (1979) and the epic science-fiction film The Chronicles of Riddick (2004). He has also helmed several biopics including Coal Miner’s Daughter (1980), Gorillas in the Mist (1988), and The World Is Not Enough (1999).
In addition to his work in film and television, Apted has also been involved in politics. In 2006, he served as an advisor to British Prime Minister Tony Blair. In 2009, he was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire.
Throughout his career, Apted has been nominated for many awards, including an Academy Award, six Emmy Awards, and two Directors Guild of America Awards. In 2014, he was awarded a BAFTA Fellowship in recognition of his outstanding contribution to television and film.
Michael Apted is a highly respected filmmaker who has had a long and successful career. His work on the Up Series has been hugely influential, while his feature films have earned him critical acclaim. Apted is a testament to the power of creativity and dedication.
