Understand
Author and former politician Jeffrey Archer reflects on Somerset upbringing shortly before death at 86
Overview
Bestselling author and former politician Jeffrey Archer died on Monday at the age of 86, just a week after expressing nostalgic feelings about his upbringing in Somerset during an interview with BBC presenter Jon Kay. Archer, who grew up in Weston-super-Mare and attended Wellington School, passed away the day before the release of his final novel, Adam and Eve. Friends, former colleagues, and school staff remembered him as an extraordinary, generous, and talented figure who left a lasting impact through his writing, charity work, and public life.
Key points
- Jeffrey Archer died on Monday at the age of 86, just a day before the release of his final novel, Adam and Eve.
- A week before his death, Archer was interviewed by BBC Breakfast presenter Jon Kay at his alma mater, Wellington School, where he reflected wistfully on his Somerset upbringing.
- During the visit, Archer shared childhood memories, including growing up in Weston-super-Mare and sleeping in a bed previously used by John Cleese.
- Wellington School headteacher Dr Battison noted that Archer was buoyant and in good form during his recent visit to promote his book.
- Archer had a diverse career as a Conservative MP, bestselling author, and philanthropist, and later served in the House of Lords until his retirement in 2024.