Life after Grange Hill: Tragic deaths, sad cancer diagnosis and unexpected careers

Grange Hill, the trailblazing series famed for its stark reflection of school life, has been a cultural touchstone for youngsters growing up in the 70s, 80s, and 90s, even extending its resonance into the new millennium.

This groundbreaking show commenced its journey over four decades ago in 1978 and gracefully retired its cap in 2008, leaving behind an impressive legacy after thirty years of broadcast.

Standing in stark contrast to the typically rosy depictions of youth on TV, Grange Hill was fearless in broaching contentious subjects, such as knife crime and heroin addiction. Leap to the present, and Britbox streams these episodes with disclaimers about "racist and offensive language", highlighting the shifts in societal attitudes.

Sir Phil Redmond, the brain behind Grange Hill, sent shockwaves through the fanbase a few years back when he announced intentions to revive the hit series as a movie designed to encapsulate today's educational experiences.

Despite the absence of a premiere date, there's speculation that the original line-up may grace the silver screen once more. Post-finale, the Grange Hill stalwarts have encountered diverse destinies; some tragically departing too soon, others wrestling with challenges such as homelessness or imprisonment, according to Derbyshire Live, reports the Mirror.

Yet, for some, their destinations are shining beacons of success, from Hollywood acclaim to entrepreneurship, including casino ownership.

Let's take a roll call of the cast and delve into where these former schoolyard heroes and rebels have ended up, long after the last school bell has rung.

Todd Carty, one of Grange Hill's most familiar faces, landed his first acting role in a Woolworths advert at the tender age of four.