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Understand

What does being a 'man' really mean in each decade of life? From Michael Palin in his 80s to comedian Vittorio Angelone, just turned 30, seven men share their personal experiences.

Radio 4,8 episodes

Episodes

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Seven Ages of Man, with Michael Rosen
Trailer
What does being a ‘man’ mean? Seven men share their experiences through the decades.
22 Sep 2026,3 mins
Seven Ages of Man, with Michael Rosen
1. Michael Palin's in his 80s
Two Michaels talk about masculinity and how being in your 80s is liberating.
26 Sep 2026,14 mins
Seven Ages of Man, with Michael Rosen
2. Colm Tóibín's in his 70s
Colm Tóibín, author and poet, opens up about sexuality and creativity in his 70s.
26 Sep 2026,15 mins
Seven Ages of Man, with Michael Rosen
3. David Baddiel's in his 60s
David Baddiel shares the realities of being a man in his 60s.
28 Sep 2026,14 mins
Seven Ages of Man, with Michael Rosen
4. Matthew Todd's in his 50s
Journalist and writer Matthew Todd talks about self-acceptance in his 50s.
29 Sep 2026,14 mins
Seven Ages of Man, with Michael Rosen
5. Lias Saoudi's in his 40s
Fat White Family singer Lias Saoudi reveals how he has transformed in his 40s.
30 Sep 2026,14 mins
Seven Ages of Man, with Michael Rosen
6. Marvin Sordell's in his 30s
Former footballer Marvin Sordell opens up about his breakdown and new life after 30.
01 Oct 2026,15 mins
Seven Ages of Man, with Michael Rosen
7. Vittorio Angelone's in his 20s
Can comedian Vittorio Angelone learn to like himself, after his tumultuous 20s?
02 Oct 2026,15 mins