Watch Age Before Beauty

Age Before Beauty is a British television drama series created by Debbie Horsfield and aired on ITV in 2018. The show follows the life of the family-run Belle La Vie salon, based in Manchester, as they deal with various personal and professional challenges. The central figure of the show is Bel Finch (played by Polly Walker), the charismatic and ambitious owner of the salon. Bel is a former model and beauty pageant winner who has built up her business with the help of her husband Wes (played by James Murray), a handsome and charming businessman. Together they have three children: the rebellious and promiscuous Layla (played by Jillian McKenzie), the ambitious and hardworking Lorelei (played by Madeleine Mantock), and the sensitive and artistic Leo (played by Amir El-Masry).

The story begins with the return of Bel's wayward sister, Tina (played by Lisa Riley), who has been estranged from the family for many years. Tina is a recovering drug addict and has struggled to stay clean, but with the support of her sister and the rest of the family, she begins to rebuild her life. Meanwhile, Bel is facing financial difficulties with the business, as rival salons begin to eat into their clientele.

Throughout the six-episode series, the characters face a range of personal and professional challenges, including infidelity, addiction, debt, and family strife. As the tensions increase, the family must pull together to save their business and their relationships.

Polly Walker's portrayal of Bel Finch is the standout performance of the show, as she deftly balances Bel's steely ambition with her vulnerability and love for her family. James Murray brings a charm and warmth to the role of Wes, while Amir El-Masry delivers a sensitive and nuanced performance as Leo. Lisa Riley is a welcome addition to the cast as Tina, bringing both humor and heart to her portrayal of a woman trying to rebuild her life.

The show's themes of family, aging, and self-acceptance are explored with sensitivity and realism, making it a relatable and engaging story for audiences of all ages. The beauty industry setting adds an interesting dimension to the show, allowing for a look at the pressures and expectations placed on women in regards to their appearance and youth.

Overall, Age Before Beauty is a well-written and well-acted drama that offers a refreshing and realistic portrait of family life. With its strong performances and engaging storylines, it is sure to delight fans of British drama.

Age Before Beauty is a series that ran for 1 seasons (6 episodes) between July 31, 2018 and on ITV