25 March 1956

Lupino - best known for the role of Bill Snibson in the hugely popular stage musical Me and My Girl, which popularised the song The Lambeth Walk - becomes the first actor to be honoured, when Eamonn caught up with him at the BBC Television Theatre.
Among the guests greeting Lupino is actor and singer Harry Welchman.

15 October 1956

The actress, who gained fame in London's Edwardian musical comedies in the 1890s, was surprised by Eamonn in the audience at the King's Theatre, Hammersmith.
Ada, a sprightly 82 year old, is greeted by, among others, Australian entertainer Albert Whelan and actress Barbara Mullen.

18 February 1957

Eamonn surprised the actor in the audience at the King's Theatre, Hammersmith.
Esmond, a successful actor before the Second World War, was badly injured whilst on active service on board HMS Prince of Wales during the war, and was blind for two years, though he later regained some sight in his right eye and was able to continue acting.

1 April 1957

For the first of her two tributes the actress - who was known as Britain's 'blonde bombshell' - was surprised by Eamonn in the audience at the King's Theatre, Hammersmith. Diana had recently received rave reviews for her performance in the film A Kid For Two Fathings, and the film's writer Wolf Mankowicz is among those paying tribute.

11 November 1957

Jack - who found fame through the characters he created for the BBC radio comedy series ITMA - was surprised by Eamonn in the audience at the BBC Television Theatre.
Jack appeared in ITMA for almost ten years from 1939, and his This Is Your Life tribute ends with a reunion of former colleagues from the show, including actor Maurice Denham.

13 January 1958

Eamonn surprised the former actress - known affectionately as 'Morty' - in the audience at the BBC Television Theatre.
After appearing in several early British silent films, Morty became a theatrical dresser and worked with ballerina Alicia Markova and actress Jessie Matthews - and both stars pay their tribute on the programme.

17 February 1958

This edition of This Is Your Life made headline news when the show's emotional reunions caused the popular actress to break down in tears.
Eamonn surprised Anna - a box office sensation for over 25 years - at the BBC Television Theatre, where her guests include recent former subjects Victor Silvester and Anne Brusselmans.

17 March 1958

In a St Patrick's Day themed edition - complete with Irish dancers, a Ceilidh Band and a backdrop of an Irish village decorated with shamrocks - Eamonn surprised the popular Irish character actor on the stage of the BBC Television Theatre.
Among those paying tribute to Noel was American film star, Danny Kaye, who sent a recorded message.

5 May 1958

'Matty', as he was affectionately known, was surprised by Eamonn at the BBC Television Theatre, and greeted by, among others, actress Margaret Lockwood.
His unpredictability meant the programme was cut short due to time constraints, but 'by viewer's special request', this edition became the first This Is Your Life to be repeated.

8 December 1958

The actor-manager - who achieved great success with his monologues and sketches, many of which included characters from the work of Charles Dickens - was surprised by Eamonn while backstage at the BBC Television Theatre.
Among those paying tribute are music hall singer G H Elliott and actor Lupino Lane.

2 March 1959

Eamonn ambushed the hugely popular star of postwar British films - appropriately - in the foyer of the Gaumont Cinema in London's Shepherd's Bush.
Down the road at the BBC Television Theatre, Doctor in the House co-star Dirk Bogarde pays tribute, as does Genevieve co-star, Kay Kendall - who is accompanied by another of the film's stars - a German Shepherd dog!

8 February 1960

The actor and singer - a popular musical theatre star between the wars - was surprised by Eamonn in a taxi outside the BBC's Riverside Studios in Hammersmith, London.
Among those paying tribute back at the BBC Television Theatre is the actress Ada Reeve, who played a significant part in the start of Harry's career.

7 March 1960

The internationally famous film star - and former British Army officer - was surprised by Eamonn in Studio H at the BBC's Lime Grove Studios.
Among those greeting Richard - who earned an Oscar nomination for the 1949 film The Hasty Heart - is Walt Disney, who sends a recorded message from his studio in Hollywood.

10 October 1960

The renowned actress - most associated with Shakespeare and Bernard Shaw - was interrupted by Eamonn while reading a speech from the play Henry VIII at the BBC Television Centre.
A trio of theatrical knights - Michael Redgrave, Ralph Richardson, and John Gielgud - pay tribute at the nearby BBC Television Theatre.

19 December 1960

Eamonn and the team make a rare journey outside central London and travel west to surprise the popular screen actor outside Pinewood Studios - as he leaves work for the day!
Theatre director Tyrone Guthrie and actress Sheila Sim are among those paying tribute to John, and the tribute ends with music from The London Scottish Pipers.

13 February 1961

Flora - acclaimed as one of the finest dramatic actresses of her generation - was surprised by Eamonn backstage at the BBC Television Theatre.
Among the guests greeting Flora in the theatre are actors James Mason, Paul Robeson and Robert Beatty, while Charles Laughton sends his tribute via a recorded message.

3 April 1961

Jessie - the actress, singer, dancer and one of Britain's most successful and well-loved performers - was surprised by Eamonn in the foyer of the BBC Television Theatre for a special Easter Monday broadcast.
Among those reminiscing and paying tribute is the actress Anna Neagle.

23 October 1961

For the first time in the programme's history, the surprise and the tribute took place a day apart. Brian - famously associated with the Whitehall farces - was surprised by Eamonn while at a friend's house party in Surrey - while the actual tribute was recorded the following evening.
On the guest list are actors Hattie Jacques and Terry Scott.

4 December 1961

The BAFTA award-winning actor was surprised by Eamonn while relaxing at his north London home.
Back at the BBC Television Theatre, Peter - who began his career in Australia but gained international fame through his work in British films - was greeted by, among others, actors Edith Evans, Maxine Audley and Tony Britton.

2 April 1962

Eamonn and the team took a trip to the seaside to surprise Dora in the living room of her Brighton home: "Tonight? Oh dear! I've got to do some auditions at 4!"
Back at the BBC Television Theatre, the popular actress was greeted by friends from her home town of Oldham, while playwright Emlyn Williams paid tribute on film.

7 May 1962

The actress and singer - best known for her performances in Edwardian musical comedies - was surprised by Eamonn while sketching in the garden of her home in Richmond.
The dancer Anton Dolin and actors Peter Ustinov and Margaret Lockwood are among those paying tribute to Lady Hicks.

2 October 1962

Rupert - currently playing the title role in the BBC's television adaptation of Maigret, based on Georges Simenon's Maigret novels - was surprised by Eamonn while filming a scene for the popular detective series. Among those paying tribute to the Liverpool born actor are actors Donald Pleasance and Dorothy Tutin, along with his fellow Maigret cast members.

11 December 1962

Ruby became famous for being one of George Edwardes' 'Gaiety Girls' - a glamorous dancing corps consisting of fashionable, elegant young ladies who became the toast of Edwardian London. She was surprised by Eamonn outside the BBC Television Theatre.
Ruby's guests include actress and singer Evelyn Laye.

18 December 1962

Crime novelist Agatha Christie is on hand to assist Eamonn surprise the actor during a dinner at the Savoy Hotel - held to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the her play The Mousetrap, in which Richard had been an original cast member.
Among the guests greeting Richard are actor John Mills, and the Reverend James Butterworth.

26 February 1963

The popular character actor - memorable as Magwitch in the David Lean film, Great Expectations, and later in Hollywood epics Quo Vadis and Ben-Hur - was surprised by Eamonn in the foyer of the BBC Television Theatre.
Among those paying tribute are actor Cecil Parker, and via a recorded message, actress Deborah Kerr.

12 March 1963

The American actor - popular on radio with shows such as Hi, Gang! and Life with the Lyons - was surprised by Eamonn outside the BBC Television Theatre.
His guests include actress Anna Neagle, who greets him in person, while Hollywood actress Gloria Swanson sends a filmed message.

3 October 1963

Eamonn interrupts the recording of a scene for the BBC television series Z Cars at the BBC Television Centre, in order to surprise the South African born British actor currently playing DI Charlie Barlow in the police drama. The star of another television police series is among those paying tibute - the actor best known for playing Maigret - Rupert Davies.

24 October 1963

Eamonn surprised the American actress at the stage door of London's Prince of Wales Theatre, after the first night of the show Never Too Late.
Bessie began her acting career in the silent films of pioneering Hollywood director D W Griffith, and moved to England in 1935 where she continued to work on the stage and play small roles in films.

12 December 1963

Margaret - notable for her performances in the 1940s Gainsborough Pictures melodramas, such as The Man in Grey and The Wicked Lady - was surprised by Eamonn at the BBC Television Centre.
Her former co-stars Patricia Roc and James Mason greet Margaret at the BBC Television Theatre, while Phyllis Calvert sends a recorded message.

16 January 1964

For the first of her two tributes the character actress - popular in British films of the 1940s and 1950s, before moving into television comedy - was surprised by Eamonn in the audience at the BBC Television Theatre.
Among those paying tribute are comedians Ted Ray and Michael Bentine.

19 March 1964

The American born actress - well known for playing the part of Janet the housekeeper, in Dr Finlay's Casebook - was surprised by Eamonn outside the BBC Television Theatre, while filming for the BBC television series which centred on a Scottish based general medical practice. In a nod to her family links with the Isle of Aran, Barbara's final guest is a seal!

17 December 1969

For her first This Is Your Life tribute the actress - best known for her role as Cathy Gale in the ITV series The Avengers - was surprised by Eamonn in a dressing room at Thames Television's Euston Road Studios.
Actor David Tomlinson pays tribute in the studio, while her Avengers co-star, Patrick Macnee, talks to her on the telephone.

3 February 1971

For the first of his two This Is Your Life tributes, the actor was surprised by Eamonn in the bar of the White House Hotel near London's Regents Park.
Edward - who became a household name starring in the television spy drama series Callen - was greeted by, among others, actress Sheila Hancock - who pays tribute via a recorded message.

10 February 1971

The cast of the West End play Move Over Mrs Markham helped Eamonn - disguised as a wine waiter - surprise the South African born actress during a cocktail party in the bar of London's Vaudeville Theatre.
The play's cast join Moira back at Thames Television's Euston Road Studios, where among her other guests is comedian Bob Monkhouse.

14 April 1971

The current incarnation of television's Doctor Who was surprised by Eamonn - in an unknown location - while rehearsing a scene for the BBC science fiction programme.
The actor Bill Maynard greets Jon at the Euston Road Studios, while broadcaster David Jacobs sends a filmed message.

21 April 1971

The actor and film director was watching a screening of his new film The Railway Children in a cinema on London's Baker Street when Eamonn surprised him by unexpectedly appearing on the big screen!
Stars of the film, Dinah Sheridan and Jenny Agutter, are among the guests, along with the Hollywood legend Ingrid Bergman.

5 May 1971

Googie was expecting to be interviewed by journalist Godfrey Winn, but found herself surprised by Eamonn as she entered a darkened studio at Thames Television's Euston Road Studios.
Paying tribute to Googie - who had just returned to the UK after several years in Australia - are actors Keith Michell and Richard Hearne.

5 January 1972

The Australian actor was in character and heavily padded when Eamonn surprised him while filming a scene for his latest film, Henry VIII and His Six Wives, at Elstree Studios.
Actresses Wendy Toye and Dorothy Tutin are among those paying tribute back at Thames Television's Euston Road Studios.

23 February 1972

Eamonn surprised the actor - famous for his roles in such films as Billy Liar and Doctor Zhivago - at offices opposite London's Savile Club, with the help of members of the Hull FC team - who present Tom - an avid fan - with a football signed by all the team's players. Actors Rod Steiger and Omar Sharif send recorded messages while actress Rita Tushingham greets Tom in the studio.

5 April 1972

Pauline was surprised by Eamonn while on location in London's Belgravia, filming a promotional trailer for the highly successful television series Upstairs Downstairs, in which she plays the maid, Sarah.
Among those greeting Pauline at Thames Television's Euston Road Studios are actress Patricia Hayes and writer John Mortimer.

20 December 1972

Phyllis - one of the leading film stars of the 1940s Gainsborough melodramas - was surprised by Eamonn on the doorstep of her west London home.
Among her guests are her co-stars from those fondly remembered films - Patricia Roc and Jean Kent, who greet her in person, while Margaret Lockwood sends a recorded message.

7 March 1973

Eamonn surprised Dulcie during the curtain call of the play Dragon Variation at the Richmond Theatre, where the programme was then recorded.
Dulcie's guests include fellow actors Barbara Mullen and Richard Attenborough, who join her on stage to pay tribute, while her Gainsborough Pictures co-star James Mason sends a recorded message.

25 April 1973

The actor - best known for his roles in British films such as Genevieve and The Titfield Thunderbolt - was surprised by Eamonn while having a drink in his local pub - The King's Head in Shepperton.
Among those greeting John at the Euston Road Studios are actors Dinah Sheridan and Alfred Marks, while singer Petula Clark sends a filmed message.

21 November 1973

The actor and singer-songwriter, best known for appearing in several Carry On films, was surprised by Eamonn while appearing at the London Palladium, where the programme was then recorded.
Helping Eamonn was entertainer Des O'Connor - who was surprised on the same stage four years previously.

5 December 1973

The actress - and youngest daughter of actor John Mills and sister of actress Juliet Mills - was surprised by Eamonn in the projection room of a private cinema in central London.
Among others, Hayley's guests are actor and film director Lionel Jeffries, who greets her in the studio, and actress Maureen O'Hara, who sends a filmed message.

19 December 1973

Eamonn interrupted the filming of a scene for the popular ITV police drama series Special Branch in order to surprise George, who had played the role of DCI Alan Craven since 1969.
The wrestler Jackie Pallo and musician Edmundo Ros are among those paying tribute to the actor back at Thames Television's Euston Road Studios.

6 February 1974

It wasn't long after surprising the actress Pauline Collins that Eamonn caught up with her husband - and co-star in ITV's drama series Upstairs Downstairs – tracking him down and surprising him at a garage on the A40.
John's colleagues from his popular ITV situation comedy Please Sir! are on the guest list, as are the actors Tom Courtenay and Anna Neagle.

20 February 1974

Sam's full edition of This Is Your Life has never been aired as it was used as a replacement for author Richard Gordon's tribute, after he refused to take part - live on air. Eamonn had surprised the profilic character actor at Kempton Park racecourse, for a recorded tribute which saw Sam reunited with acting colleagues such as Jack Warner and Beryl Reid.

20 March 1974

Interrupting filming again - this time for the ITV sci-fi adventure series Space 1999 at Pinewood Studios - Eamonn surprised the versatile actor on an appropriately futuristic set - flashing up the words This Is Your Life on one of the prop monitors. Unfortunately Roy - in character - wasn't wearing his glasses, so was understandably confused.

3 April 1974

Eamonn surprised the prolific actor - best known for his roles in the horror films produced by Hammer Studios - while having a fencing match, which was being filmed for the ITV children's programme Magpie.
Fellow horror stars Peter Cushing and Vincent Price are among the guests paying tribute to Christopher - whose family are from European nobility.

1 May 1974

This unusual edition of This Is Your Life - with its unique red titles and a subject who stands up for most of the show - was broadcast from London's Savoy Theatre, where Eamonn surprised the popular character actor during a cast photocall for his current play A Ghost on Tiptoe. Robert is greeted by, among others, the actress Sybil Thorndike.

1 January 1975

Jean was surprised by Eamonn in the foyer of London's Strand Theatre, where she was currently appearing in the farce No Sex Please We're British.
The actress - who found fame in the melodramas produced by Gainsborough Pictures in the 1940s - is reunited with her former co-stars from those films - Phyllis Calvert and Margaret Lockwood.

5 March 1975

Peter was surprised by Eamonn while out shopping with his wife, the actress and impressionist Janet Brown, in the London department store Selfridges.
The tribute focuses on Peter's war service, including his time as a prisoner-of-war in Stalag Luft III, and his guests include Carry On writer Talbot Rothwell and actor Terry Scott.

3 December 1975

Frank was the guest of honour at a special dinner at the Metropolitan Police Sports Club in East Moseley when Eamonn gatecrashed the event - along with the cast of Frank's current series, the BBC police drama Softly Softly. The tribute is then broadcast from the club, where a clearly inhebriated subject was greeted by actors James Ellis and Susan George.

21 January 1976

Twenty four years before taking up his residency in Emmerdale, Patrick was surprised by Eamonn at a school in London's Earls Court.
The popular actor had scored success in television's Callan and Special Branch and his colleagues from those hit series - Edward Woodward and George Sewell - are on his guest list.

25 February 1976

Eamonn interrupted a rehearsal of the popular radio drama series The Archers at BBC Broadcasting House, in order to surprise the actress who has played the character of matriarch Doris Archer since the first episode, which was broadcast in January 1951.
Among those paying tribute to Gwen is actress Peggy Mount.

3 November 1976

The prolific character actor - remembered for his role as Colonel Pickering in the 1964 film version of the musical My Fair Lady - was surprised by Eamonn at Newmarket Racecourse.
Guests paying tribute to a clearly emotional Wilfred include the actors Robert Morley, Peter Sellers and Trevor Howard.

15 December 1976

For a festive surprise, the comedy actor Jack Smethurst helped Eamonn ambush Joss at his London home in Kingston Hill - with a trick involving a two Santa Claus outfits!
Among those paying tribute are actors Bernard Miles and Dulcie Gray in the studio, while Hollywood legend Ingrid Bergman sends a recorded message.

5 January 1977

Eamonn surprised the actress at the curtain call of the play The Bed Before Yesterday at London's Lyric Theatre, where the programme was then recorded.
Sheila's husband John Thaw and their daughters had been watching the play surreptitiously from one of the theatre boxes, before joining her on stage for the tribute.

2 February 1977

The diminuative Scottish actress was greeted by the Highland Caledonian Pipers Band at London's Euston Station, where Eamonn surprised her with the help of the show's researcher Maurice Leonard.
Molly is greeted in the studio by impressionist Janet Brown, while American singer Tony Martin sends a recorded message.

9 February 1977

Actor Sir John Mills helps Eamonn surprise his friend and co-star from the classic war film Ice Cold in Alex, in the reception area of Thames Television's Euston Road Studios.
Sylvia Syms - another star of that film - greets Anthony in the studio, and Hollywood legend Burt Lancaster pays tribute via a filmed message.

23 February 1977

Michael's wife and regular co-star Dulcie Gray assisted Eamonn in surprising the actor in the foyer of the Inn on the Park Hotel off London's Park Lane.
Among those paying tribute to Michael in person are former prisoner-of-war, Sam Derry and actress Barbara Mullen, while actress Juliet Mills and actor Richard Todd send their greetings on film.

13 April 1977

Brian was caught out by Eamonn a second time at a charity cheque presentation on the stage of Her Majesty's Theatre in London.
The actor - now an active charity campaigner - was greeted by playwright and collaborator Ray Cooney, entertainer Leslie Crowther, and his own sister - Emmerdale actress Sheila Mercier.

8 March 1978

One of the first stars of radio - who is best known for playing Mole in Toad of Toad Hall for almost half a century - was surprised by Eamonn on his 83rd birthday.
The cast of his latest play - Tom Stoppard's Dirty Linen and New-Found-Land - are part of the surprise - complete with a birthday cake.

15 March 1978

Ian's former co-star, and star of television's The New Avengers - Patrick Macnee - helps Eamonn spring the surprise on the actor, outside London's Sheraton Park Hotel.
Among those paying tribute are fellow actors Maurice Denham and Ian Bannen, and comedian Tommy Cooper - who causes his usual mayhem!

5 April 1978

The actor - currently appearing in the television series The Sweeney alongside John Thaw - was surprised by Eamonn while filming scenes for the police series on location in central London.
Dennis - who began his career as a child actor - is greeted by actors Susan George and Robert Powell, and footballer Alan Mullery.

28 February 1979

Robert - fresh from his recent success in the title role of the lavish television production, Jesus of Nazareth - was surprised by Eamonn while out walking on London's Embankment.
Among those paying tribute to Robert are the television film's director Franco Zefferelli and executive producer Lord Lew Grade.

14 March 1979

Eamonn enlisted the help of actress Hannah Gordon - Peter's co-star in the BBC television series Telford's Change - to surprise the actor in a central London back street, after tailing Peter's car for several miles!
The cast of Peter's popular series join him for the tribute, along with actors Ian Ogilvy, Peter Sallis and Susannah York.

28 March 1979

Dinah - fondly remembered for her roles in the classic British films Genevieve and The Railway Children - was surprised by Eamonn at London Airport, ably assisted by her daughter, the television presenter Jenny Hanley.
Among those greeting Dinah at the New London Theatre are actress and singer Evelyn Laye and actor John Gielgud.

18 April 1979

Less than a month after his guest appearance on Peter Barkworth's tribute, Ian - currently enjoying success as television's Simon Templer in The Saint - was himself handed the big red book by Eamonn.
A mock roadblock, and a dramatic encounter between two cars - reminiscent of a scene from his hit series - was the set up used to catch him!

9 January 1980

The curtain call at a matinee of the Sherlock Holmes play Crucifer of Blood at London's Theatre Royal Haymarket was where the popular actor was surprised by Eamonn - who had arrived fittingly in a horse-drawn carriage.
Gerald, who stayed in costume for the show's recording, was greeted by actresses Dinah Sheridan and Cathleen Nesbitt.

20 February 1980

The exclusive Martini Terrace at London's New Zealand House seemed an appropriate setting for Eamonn to surprise the actress - who was actually born in New Zealand.
Nyree was attending a meeting to discuss her part in the television drama series, For Maddie With Love. The actor Ian Hendry was on hand to help with the surprise.

7 May 1980

Having originated the role of Mrs Higgins in the stage musical My Fair Lady in 1956, Cathleen was about to reprise the role - in her 90s - in a Broadway revival. With this in mind, Eamonn surprised her on the Strand - with the help of the show's current London cast.
Cathleen's tribute ends with a unique salute from the cast of virtually every show then playing the West End.

4 March 1981

Eamonn enlisted the help of actor Tom Conti and playwright Ray Cooney to surprise the actress at London's Shaftesbury Theatre following a matinee performance of the musical They're Playing Our Song.
Gemma was greeted by broadcaster Terry Wogan and singer Val Doonican - before returning to the Shaftesbury for the evening performance of the show.

18 March 1981

The popular actor - best known to television viewers as the hard-bitten, tough talking Flying Squad detective Jack Regan in the popular ITV police series The Sweeney - was surprised by Eamonn in the foyer of the National Theatre in London.
Actors Tom Courtenay, Richard Briers and Diana Rigg are among those paying tribute.

27 January 1982

A large group of Robin's acting colleagues gathered at London's Savoy Hotel to help Eamonn surprise the actor - who is perhaps best known for his role as Uncle Mort in the BBC television series I Didn't Know You Cared.
Among those paying tribute to the character actor are former This Is Your Life subjects Peter Ustinov and Petula Clark.

24 March 1982

Peter - who had just landed the role of television's most famous time traveller - was filming a promotional film for the new Doctor Who series in London's Trafalgar Square, when Eamonn appeared from inside the Tardis to present the actor with the big red book.
Among his guests are actresses Patricia Hodge and Beryl Reid.

27 October 1982

Diana - the former sex symbol of British film who became a popular character actress - was ambushed by Eamonn as she entered the Royalty Theatre.
For her second This Is Your Life tribute, Diana is greeted in the theatre by actors Lionel Jeffries and Alfred Marks, while comedian Bob Hope and entertainer Liberace send messages from Hollywood.

8 December 1982

In a nod to the actor's role in the hugely popular ITV television series The Professionals, Eamonn arrives by high speed car to surprise Lewis in a London back street!
Co-star Gordon Jackson was on hand to help and pay tribute, while Lewis's on-screen partner Martin Shaw sends a recorded message.

9 March 1983

Eamonn surprises the well respected actress at London's Royal National Hotel during a reception to celebrate the success of the pantomime Cinderella, which recently ended its run at the Richmond Theatre.
For this, her second This Is Your Life tribute, Anna is greeted by - among others - actress and singer Evelyn Laye and actor Peter Ustinov.

26 October 1983

An extended edition opens series 24 when Eamonn surprises the popular and much loved actor - for his second tribute - at the curtain call of the play Little Lies on the stage of the Wyndham's Theatre in London.
Joining the Mills dynasty to celebrate John's achievements and pay tribute are fellow actors Richard Attenborough, Harry Andrews and Stewart Granger.

23 November 1983

Susannah - recently voted television actress of the year for her role in the popular ITV wartime drama series We'll Meet Again - was surprised by Eamonn, along with her fellow cast members, at Duxford Airfield in Cambridgeshire.
The actress Anna Neagle and singer Sacha Distel are among Susannah's guests.

21 December 1983

Eamonn, disguised as Santa Claus, and with the big red book wrapped up as a present, surprised Matthew during a photo shoot with his colleagues from the ITV entertainment programme Game For A Laugh, on a cold December evening in London's Trafalgar Square.
Among those paying tribute are actors Peter Davison and Patricia Hodge, and writer and comedian Eric Sykes.

18 January 1984

Eamonn surprised the actress at the Ambassador's Theatre in London during a photo shoot to launch the new Theatre of Comedy company.
Liza - who met her husband, the singer Alvin Stardust, at the recording of Michael Aspel's This is Your Life, is greeted by - among others - the actresses Googie Withers and Maureen O'Sullivan.

8 February 1984

Chris - who has played the character of Walter Gabriel in the popular BBC radio soap opera The Archers for over 30 years - was surprised by Eamonn and his fellow cast members at London's Royalty Theatre.
Broadcaster Gloria Hunniford greets Chris in person, while cricket commentator John Arlott sends a recorded message.

4 April 1984

Eamonn - dressed as Brian's character from his current television film The Master of Ballantrae - enlisted the help of the film's fellow cast members to surprise the prolific actor at London's Barbican Centre.
The actors Sian Phillips, Paul Nicholas and Michael York are on the guest list, and television's Magnum P.I. - Tom Selleck - sends a filmed tribute.

14 November 1984

Joanna Lumley and Gareth Hunt - Patrick's co-stars in the hit television series The New Avengers - help Eamonn surprise the actor outside a central London hotel.
Previous co-stars from earlier series The Avengers - Linda Thorson, Diana Rigg and Honor Blackman all pay tribute via recorded messages.

1 January 1985

The actor and theatre manager was surprised by Eamonn during a performance of his famous monologues. Only the second actor - after Olivier - to be granted a life peerage, Bernard was manager of London's Mermaid Theatre.
His guests include film director John Huston and opera singer Dame Eva Turner.

30 January 1985

Cast members of the hit BBC prisoner-of-war drama serial Tenko gather at London's Howerd Hotel to help Eamonn surprise the actress - who thought she was there for a 76th birthday celebration.
The actors Peter Ustinov, Harry Andrews and Tony Britton are among the guests who greet Jean at the Royalty Theatre.

6 March 1985

Shortly after his appearance as a guest on Jean Anderson's tribute, Harry was presented with the big red book by Eamonn.
The 'pick up' was in London's Duke Street on the site of the now demolished St James's Theatre, where the actor made his debut. Many of his friends had been hiding in the nearby Golden Lion pub.

17 April 1985

Jack - perhaps best known for his many appearances in the Carry On films - was surprised by Eamonn on stage at the Richmond Theatre.
Our host was dressed as Jack's character Alf Ippititimus - notable for his 'phwaay!' catchphrase and his apparent muscular tics. Jack's guests include - among others - actors John Inman and Howard Keel.

1 May 1985

Eamonn surprised the actor on location in Surrey, interrupting filming of an episode of the popular ITV situation comedy Never The Twain.
Helping Eamonn spring the surprise is the actor's co-star from the series, Windsor Davies. Donald's guest list is crammed with theatrical greats, including Joyce Carey, Judi Dench, Anna Neagle and Sir Peter Hall.

27 November 1985

Maurice was watching his new film, Mr Love, in a preview theatre on London's Wardour Street when Eamonn interrupted the screening to surprise him.
The actor - celebrating 50 years since his professional debut - was greeted in person by fellow actors Richard Murdoch and Nigel Hawthorne, while Stewart Granger pays tribute via a recorded message.

26 December 1985

In a special Boxing Day edition of This Is Your Life, Joyce - currently celebrating 70 years in the business - is surprised by Eamonn at London's Waldorf Hotel.
Among those paying tribute to the actress - best known for her long professional and personal relationship with Noel Coward - are actors Deborah Kerr, Peter O'Toole and Rex Harrison.

8 January 1986

Eamonn called upon the help of Reg Prince - Oliver's stand-in and stuntman for more than 25 years - to surprise the unpredictable actor at Rosslyn Park Rugby Club in southwest London.
Oliver's guest list includes racing driver Stirling Moss and two film directors associated with the actor's work, Michael Winner and Ken Russell.

26 February 1986

Eamonn interrupted another curtain call - this time at London's Strand Theatre for the farce Look No Hans! - to surprise the character actor best known for playing aristocratic roles.
Fellow cast members from the comedy - David Jason and Lynda Bellingham - join the tribute, while actress Wendy Craig is also among those on the guest list.

2 April 1986

London store Fortnum & Mason - former employers of Simon before he hit the big time - is where Eamonn chose to catch his man - with the help of fellow actors Ian Ogilvy, Colin Baker, Nigel Havers and Gareth Hunt. Simon's co-stars from the popular ITV series Upstairs Downstairs greet him at the Royalty Theatre, while actress Joan Collins sends a recorded message.

3 December 1986

Susan's husband, the actor Simon MacCorkindale - dressed as Father Christmas - provided an additional surprise when Eamonn ambushed the actress outside the London department store Harrods. Unusually, this edition includes footage of both the subject and host arriving by car at Teddington Studios, where Susan is greeted by actors Frazer Hines and Patrick Mower, among others.

17 December 1986

Lady Redgrave - the matriarch of the famous acting dynasty - was surprised by Eamonn in the Kingston upon Thames branch of Hatchards Bookshop.
The actress - who often appeared on stage and screen with her husband, Sir Michael Redgrave - is greeted at Teddington Studios by actors Edward Woodward, John Mills and Dorothy Tutin.

28 January 1987

Friends and colleagues of the actress - about to appear with her in a charity production of Cinderella - don gowns and wigs, in a nod to her current role in television's Rumpole of the Bailey, and help Eamonn spring the surprise at the Pineapple Dance Studios in London's Kensington. The actors Anthony Andrews and John Hurt are on the guest list.

25 February 1987

The production team flew to Hollywood, where Eamonn interrupted filming a scene for the US television soap opera Dynasty to surprise the British actor, currently playing Ben Carrington in the soap.
Friends from the UK, including Simon Williams and Ian Ogilvy, sent recorded messages, while Hollywood legend Burt Lancaster paid tribute in person.

23 November 1988

Michael caught up with Richard on stage during the curtain call of the play The Business of Murder at the Theatre Royal, Windsor - where the tribute was then recorded.
Richard - who was previously honoured by This Is Your Life in 1960 - is greeted by actresses Dinah Sheridan and Patricia Neal.

25 January 1989

For her second This Is Your Life tribute, Dora was caught out by Michael on the stage of Manchester's Opera House, at the curtain call of the musical Hello, Dolly!: "I'd have had some new eyelashes if I'd known!"
Among the guests are Dora's co-stars from the BAFTA award winning film A Taste of Honey - Rita Tushingham and Robert Stephens.

6 December 1989

Alec - surprised by Michael at the curtain call of Jeffrey Archer's play Exclusive, at London's Strand Theatre - remains unique in the history of This Is Your Life. He would only allow the broadcast of his tribute on condition that the production team issue a post-credit apology for not including any mention of his late partner Geoffrey Burridge in the programme.

31 January 1990

The production team flew to Hollywood in order to tell Stephanie's story. Michael surprised her during lunch at the film capital's St James's Club, on Sunset Boulevard. Among those paying tribute to the actress - best known for her roles in the BBC series Tenko and the US soap opera The Colbys - are actors Charlton Heston and Susan Hampshire.

21 February 1990

Michael and the team created a 'horrific' atmosphere in order to surprise the star of so many Hammer Horror films while he was discussing his long film career in an interview at Thames Television's Teddington Studios.
The comedian Ernie Wise is on the guest list, along with actors John Mills and Peter Ustinov.

14 November 1990

A definite first for This is Your Life was created by this particular edition when our subject was joined by his two ex-wives - who sit either side of him during the recording of the show!
The leading actor was surprised by Michael during the curtain call of the Pirandello play Henry IV at the Wyndham's Theatre in London

23 January 1991

The star of the television's detective series Van der Valk, was a reluctant subject when Michael confronted him with the big red book in London's Maida Vale district.
Playwright Harold Pinter sends a tribute via telephone, while actresses Wendy Craig and Gabrielle Drake greet Barry in the studio.

13 March 1991

The star of such family favourite films as Mary Poppins and Bedknob and Broomsticks was surprised by Michael in the audience at London's Strand Theatre - having just watched a matinee performance of the pantomime Snow White starring Marti Caine.
The actors Robert Morley and Glynis Johns are among those paying tribute to David.

6 November 1991

Norman - listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the longest serving cast member of the BBC radio soap opera The Archers - was presented with the big red book when Michael interrupted a recording of the soap at the BBC Pebble Mill studios in Birmingham.
Among the guests are entertainer Russ Abbot and actor Robert Hardy.

18 December 1991

Another interruption - this time a recording of ITV's The Darling Buds of May - when Michael surprised the actress currently playing the role of Ma Larkin in the hit comedy series.
Co-stars David Jason and Catherine Zeta-Jones join Pam in the studio, while playwright Arnold Wesker sends a recorded message.

8 January 1992

Nigel had just arrived at Twickenham Film Studios to preview his latest television series The Good Guys when Michael pounced.
Back at Thames Television's Teddington Studios he is greeted by actresses Dinah Sheridan and Jenny Seagrove in the studio, while actors Tony Britton and Simon Williams pay their tributes via film.

26 February 1992

Kevin is the first of several cast members of the hit ITV series The Bill to be booked by the big red book. Michael - on this occasion - catches his man during location filming for the police drama.
Among those paying tribute to Kevin is comedienne Victoria Wood along with Eastenders actress June Brown.

18 March 1992

Another theatre, another curtain call - this time London's Theatre Royal, Haymarket for the French play Becket, where Robert has been wowing audiences with his Henry II to Derek Jacobi's titular role.
Among those paying tribute is Hollywood legend, Katharine Hepburn, who sends a message via telephone.

8 April 1992

Michael interrupts a serving of tea at London's luxury hotel The Ritz in order to surprise the actress, known for her many film and television roles, including the original BBC production of The Forsyte Saga.
Susan is greeted by - among others - fellow actors Joss Ackland, Martin Jarvis and Gerald Harper.

28 October 1992

The actress - and eldest daughter of actor John Mills and sister of actress Hayley Mills - was surprised by Michael during the curtain call of the Noel Coward play Fallen Angels on stage at the Richmond Theatre, where the tribute was then recorded.
Juliet's guests include husband and wife actors Michael Denison and Dulcie Gray.

11 November 1992

The former character actress - known for her association with the playwright George Bernard Shaw - ran an antique stall on London's Kings Road, which is where Michael surpised her.
Ellen is greeted by - among others - the actors Sian Phillips and Alec McCowen and jazz musician Benny Green.

16 December 1992

Glen - best known to television viewers as one of the lead actors in the ITV drama series London's Burning - was surprised by Michael while filming a scene for the firefighting drama.
Among the guests who pay tribute to the actor and keen sportsman are boxer John Conteh and footballer Geoff Hurst.

27 January 1993

Michael interrupts a recording of the ITV situation comedy Second Thoughts, at the South Bank studios of London Weekend Television, to present Lynda with the big red book.
Among those paying tribute to the actress at Thames Television's Teddington Studios are actors Christopher Biggins, Peter Davison and Christopher Timothy.

17 February 1993

Thames Television's Teddington Studios was the location chosen to surprise the Avengers and James Bond actress - for her second tribute - when Michael interrupted a 'mock' television interview.
On the guest list are Honor's friends and former colleagues, including actress June Whitfield, playwright Ray Cooney and comedian Norman Wisdom.

31 March 1993

The Goathland Hotel, Whitby - used as the set for The Aidensfield Arms, the local pub in the ITV period drama series Heartbeat - is where Michael interrupts filming to surprise the actor. A short trip to Yorkshire Television Studios in Leeds, where guests Michael Denison and Dulcie Gray and Paul Eddington are among those fellow actors paying tribute to Derek.

16 March 1994

Michael arrived in style - in a horse-drawn carriage - to interrupt filming for the ITV series Sherlock Holmes, at Grimsditch Hall near Warrington, in order to surprise the actor currently playing Dr Watson.
The actors Robert Stephens and Anthony Hopkins pay tribute via film, while Peter O'Toole greets Edward in person.

29 June 1994

The production team flew to Australia so Michael could surprise the ex-pat actor during filming for his Australian television series G.P. at the ABC television studios in Sydney. Michael's friends from the UK - including Honor Blackman and Richard Attenborough - send messages via film, while George Baker and Louie Ramsay join Michael in the studio.

21 December 1994

Michael visited London's Comedy Theatre during the curtain call of the play A Passionate Woman, to surprise the actress, best known for her roles in the BBC television drama series Tenko and the situation comedy Open All Hours.
Stephanie is joined by many of her former colleagues, including Stephanie Beacham and Jean Anderson.

1 February 1995

For his second This Is Your Life tribute, Edward is surprised by Michael during a photo shoot in the grand setting of Syon House in West London.
Among those paying tribute to the actor - famous for his lead role in the American television series The Equalizer - are fellow actors Christopher Lee and Roy Dotrice, who happens to be Edward's father-in-law!

5 April 1995

The actor - well known to television viewers as Inspector Wexford in The Ruth Rendell Mysteries - was surprised by Michael at the Port Solent Marina in Hampshire. Actress Louie Ramsay appeared in the detective series as George's onscreen wife Dora, and the two were married for real in 1993. Other guests include actresses Sylvia Syms and Jean Anderson.

19 April 1995

The well-respected acting couple - both previous subjects - were surprised by Michael at a reunion party for the BBC television series Howard's Way, on board the Sir Thomas More boat at Teddington Lock.
A star-studded guest list includes Sir John Gielgud, Sir John Mills and Lady Mills, while Michael Aspel reads out a letter from the Queen Mother.

25 October 1995

In the first of several visits to BBC television's fictional Holby City Hospital in Bristol, Michael surprised Clive - currently playing Dr Mike Barratt in the medical drama series Casualty - by replacing an actor in a re-take of a scene.
Clive's colleagues from the show join the tribute, along with actors Derek Fowlds and Lou Hirsch.

22 November 1995

In a set up worthy of one of his own cinematic exploits, 007 himself - Pierce Brosnan - helps Michael surprise the Welsh character actor, known to Bond fans as Q - a role he has played since the second Bond film in 1963. Desmond - surprised at a London press launch for Goldeneye - is reunited with his old James Bond colleagues, Geoffrey Keen and Lois Maxwell.

10 January 1996

Rula's husband Dennis Waterman was on hand to help Michael surprise the actress at the curtain call of a pantomime at Redhill's Harlequin Theatre.
Paying tribute to the actress - who is of Polish descent and renounced her title as a Polish countess - are actors Christopher Timothy and Anita Dobson and explorer John Blashford-Snell.

14 February 1996

Chili was one of Britain's first international stars during the silent film era, and her tribute was timed to coincide with the centenary of cinema in the UK. Michael surprises her during a book signing session at the London department store Harrods.
The actresses Sian Phillips and Dorothy Tutin are on the guest list.

6 December 1996

Michael surprised the actress at the curtain call of her one-woman show Shakespeare For My Father at London's Theatre Royal, Haymarket, where the programme was then recorded.
The actress Rita Tushingham pays tribute on stage, while actors Richard Briers and Charlton Heston send filmed messages.

30 December 1996

Michael surprises the much loved actress - for her second tribute - on location in Yorkshire, while filming for the BBC television comedy series Last of the Summer Wine. Thora - regarded by many as a national treasure - is greeted by comedienne Victoria Wood and actress Kathy Staff, and the Salvation Army band close this extended edition of the show.

24 February 1997

Nigel - best remembered for his roles in the film A Man For All Seasons and the BBC television series Howard's Way - was surprised by Michael at the Cheltenham stables of former National Hunt jockey David Nicholson.
The actress Dorothy Tutin pays tribute in person, while Dulcie Gray and Donald Sinden send recorded messages.

17 March 1997

The versatile and prolific actress was surprised by Michael during her curtain call of Marlene - the stage biography of the actress Marlene Dietrich - at The Hawth in Crawley.
Fellow actors Brian Blessed, Keith Barron, Nerys Hughes and Robert Hardy greet Sian in the studio while the actress Patricia Hodge pays tribute via a recorded message.

6 October 1997

Michael interrupts location filming for the ITV police drama series The Bill, to surprise the actor currently playing PC Tony Stamp.
Graham's colleagues from the series join him in the studio, along with former This Is Your Life subjects, Little and Large, Tony Blackburn, Faith Brown and Pat Coombs.

8 December 1997

Nadim's actress daughters Julia and Nadia were on hand to assist Michael as he surprised the Jordanian-born English actor at a relative's home in the London district of Upper Norwood.
Among those paying tribute to Nadim - who came to Britain in the 1950s to study drama - are actors Charles Dance and Robin Bailey.

26 January 1998

Michael returned to the set of the BBC's Holby City Hospital in Bristol and donned surgeon's green scrubs to surprise the actress playing the role of Baz in the medical drama series Casualty.
Julia is greeted by - among others - actors and former This Is Your Life subjects Windsor Davies and Dora Bryan.

16 February 1998

Michael disguised himself as a barman at Manchester's Marriott Victoria & Albert Hotel to surprise the actor during a mock interview which included the actress Susan Hampshire.
Among those paying tribute to Tim - known to his friends as Malc - are actors Edward Woodward and Robson Greene and military veteran Simon Weston.

23 November 1998

The versatile character actress is surprised by Michael at Shepperton Studios, while filming a television production of Alice in Wonderland. Among those paying tribute to Elizabeth - via recorded messages - are actors Jeremy Irons, Dame Judi Dench and theatre director Sir Peter Hall, while guests who greet her in the studio include actors James Ellis and Robert Hardy.

7 December 1998

Michael interrupts rehearsals for the play Hindle Wakes at Manchester's Royal Exchange Theatre to surprise the actress - who had shot to fame in the Channel Four soap opera Brookside. Colleagues from that series, as well as ITV's soap opera Coronation Street, are among the guests greeting Sue - along with footballers Bryan Robson and John Barnes.

4 January 1999

In true panto style, it was a case of 'It's behind you' when Michael creeps up on Christopher during the curtain call of the pantomime Mother Goose at the Theatre Royal in Brighton.
Among those greeting and paying tribute to Christopher are actresses Lynda Bellingham, Sian Phillips, Barbara Windsor and Joan Collins.

1 March 1999

Michael surprised the actor - currently celebrating a 50 year career - during a mock press interview at London's Dorchester Hotel.
Resplendent in a jacket that matches the colour of the This Is Your Life book, Ian was greeted by - among others - director and choreographer Wendy Toye, and actors Mel Gibson and Tony Britton.

29 November 1999

Martin was being interviewed by Gyles Brandreth on his London Broadcasting Company radio show when Michael struck - disguising his voice on a phone-in before storming the studio.
Kate Winslet - who appeared with the actor in the film Titanic - is on the guest list, along with actresses Susan Hampshire, Nyree Dawn Porter and Diane Keen.

13 December 1999

Rita was with the theatre producer Bill Kenwright at his London office, discussing plans to direct a film, when Michael surprised her with the big red book.
The actress - who made her screen debut in the 1961 film A Taste of Honey - is reunited with her co-stars from that film, Dora Bryan and Paul Danquah, while other guests include comedian and writer Spike Milligan.

18 March 2000

Michael - with the help of some Daleks - gatecrashed a book signing session in the Kingston-upon-Thames branch of Waterstones bookshop, in order to surprise the actor famous for playing television's Doctor Who between 1974 and 1981. In an extra edition, which was broadcast during a prime slot on a Saturday evening, Tom was greeted by, among others, actresses Julia Watson and Sue Johnston.

3 April 2000

Michael returned to television's Sun Hill Police Station - home of the ITV police drama series The Bill - to surprise the actor who has played the character of Detective Superindentent Jim Carver since 1984.
Greeting Mark - who made his film debut in Quadrophenia at the age of 18 - are actors Phil Daniels, Jack Wild and John Altman.

10 April 2000

Christopher - best known for his role as James Herriot in television's All Creatures Great and Small - was surprised by Michael on the set of the BBC daytime soap opera Doctors, at the Pebble Mill studios.
Among those paying tribute in person are actresses Lynda Bellingham and Rula Lenska, while actor and comedian Roy Hudd sends a recorded message.

27 December 2000

One of the theatre's most accomplished leading ladies was surprised by Michael at the Epsom Playhouse, following a performance of The Gift of Christmas - a family affair with husband Derek Waring and their children, Amanda and Nick.
The actors Nigel Davenport, Edward Fox and Joss Ackland are on the guest list.

25 January 2001

Michael interrupts rehearsals for the play The Playboy of the Western World, at London's National Theatre, in order to surprise the Northern Irish actor, who found fame in the BBC television police series Z Cars.
The actor and director Kenneth Branagh sends his tribute via film, while James is greeted in person by boxer Barry McGuigan.

28 February 2001

The exclusive private members club, the Groucho in London's Soho district, is the setting Michael chose to surprise the actor - whose big break came with ITV's 1984 drama serial, The Jewel in the Crown.
Charles is reunited with his co-stars from that series - Geraldine James and Tim Pigott-Smith - while the actor Leslie Phillips sends a recorded message.

21 March 2001

Another return visit to television's Sun Hill Police Station for Michael - this time to surprise the actor who has been a regular cast member - in the role of Superintendent Jack Meadows - since 1992.
Simon's colleagues from the ITV police drama series The Bill join the tribute, while other guests include actors James Grout and Jeremy Childs.

18 April 2001

Another theatre curtain call - this time at the Orchard Theatre, Dartford, with - appropriately - the play Guess Who's Coming to Dinner - is where Michael surprises the actor - best known for his role as charge nurse 'Ash', in the BBC medical drama series, Casualty.
The former This Is Your Life subject George Sewell is on hand to help.

22 November 2001

This week's theatrical curtain call interruption takes place at the London Palladium - for the musical The King and I - where Michael surprises the Indian-born actor, whose career has encompassed theatre, film and television.
The actor Edward Woodward greets Saeed in the studio, while Richard Attenborough sends a recorded message.

14 March 2002

Michael surprises the actress by interrupting a photocall for Jenny's new play The Constant Wife, at the London offices of her partner, the theatre producer Bill Kenwright. Jenny found fame in the television dramatisation of the novel A Woman of Substance, which was based on the bestseller by Barbara Taylor Bradford, who appears on the show to pay tribute.

8 May 2002

Michael surprised the actress and singer during a recording session for her new album at London's famous Abbey Road Studios.
Claire - who got her big break on the Channel 4 soap opera Brookside - had recently starred in the hit musical Chicago in London's West End, and among her guests was her co-star from that show, Ruthie Henshall.

23 May 2002

Michael and the production team travelled north to surprise the actor while filming on location at Ardverikie House in Kinloch Laggan for the BBC drama series Monarch of the Glen. Julian - an actor for many years - had recently won the Academy Award for his screenplay of the film Gosford Park, and his Oscar takes pride of place during the recording of his tribute.

30 January 2003

John - best remembered for playing Billy Corkhill in the Channel Four soap opera Brookside - was surprised by Michael on the set of his current television series - the BBC's police drama Mersey Beat.
Among those greeting John at Manchester's Granada Studios - where the tribute is recorded - are writer Kay Mellor and actress Sue Johnston.

13 February 2003

Charles - who has played the role of Brian Aldridge in the BBC's long-running radio soap opera The Archers since 1975 - was surprised by Michael during a recording of the show at the BBC Pebble Mill studios in Birmingham.
Among those on his guest list are songwriter Richard Stilgoe and comedian Bernard Manning.

10 April 2003

For his final visit to Sun Hill Police Station, Michael interrupts filming in order to surprise Lisa - a new recruit to the cast of the ITV police drama series The Bill, having previously found fame headlining her own BBC variety series.
Lisa's guests include comedian Russ Abbot and actress and dancer Bonnie Langford.

8 May 2003

Anthony - best known for his role as Sebastian in the ITV drama series Brideshead Revisited - was surprised by Michael at the curtain call of the musical My Fair Lady at the Drury Lane Theatre in London.
Back at the BBC Television Centre, Anthony's guests include author James Herbert and theatrical producer Bill Kenwright.

15 May 2003

Michael hid behind a newspaper in the reception area of a central London voice-over studio, until his given signal to surprise the Scottish actor - best known for his role as DCI Burke in ITV's police series, Taggart.
Among those paying tribute to Alex - the final actor to be honoured by This Is Your Life - are presenter Jeremy Beadle and comedian Billy Connolly.