For two decades, "Who Do You Think You Are?" has captivated viewers with its poignant journeys into family history. Celebrities like Danny Dyer, Dame Judi Dench, and Olivia Colman have delved into their ancestral roots, uncovering fascinating stories and emotional revelations. This season, a fresh batch of seven famous faces prepare to embark on their own genealogical expeditions.
The new series takes viewers on a global trek, traversing the UK and delving into family histories in Ireland, Taiwan, Jamaica, and Latvia. But who are the individuals on the quest for answers? Let's meet the celebrity cast of "Who Do You Think You Are?" 2024.
Vicky McClure
The 41-year-old actress, renowned for her roles in "Line of Duty," "This Is England," and "Trigger Point," kicks off the season with a personal journey. Intrigued by her late grandmother Jean's childhood, she embarks on a quest to uncover why her grandmother was given up by her family. McClure's investigation also uncovers the harrowing tale of her great-grandfather's experience as a Japanese prisoner of war.
Paddy McGuinness
The comedian and presenter, familiar to audiences from "Take Me Out," "Top Gear," and "A Question of Sport," steps into the spotlight in the second episode. His family history unveils his grandfather's crucial role in World War Two, his other grandfather's involvement in the Boer War, and the family's journey from Ireland to Bolton. McGuinness also dives into the origins of his surname in Ireland, discovering a surprising twist in his ancestral lineage.
Melanie Chisholm (Mel C)
Mel C, known for her "Sporty Spice" persona in the iconic Spice Girls, steps out of the spotlight and into the world of family history. The singer's third episode reveals intriguing ancestral connections, including a moneylender, a social reform advocate, and a family fleeing the Irish famine. Mel C's journey highlights the diverse and captivating nature of her family tree.
Olly Murs
The singer, who shot to fame as a runner-up on "The X Factor" in 2009, embarks on a journey that reveals a surprising family legacy. His episode takes him to Riga in Latvia, where he discovers his circus-performing ancestors, showcasing the artistic thread woven through his family history.
Rose Ayling-Ellis
The actress, best known for her role as Frankie Lewis in "EastEnders" and her triumph on "Strictly Come Dancing" in 2021, explores her family history with a unique perspective. Her episode unveils a poignant event that eerily mirrors an episode of "EastEnders," taking place in a Birmingham pub. Ayling-Ellis's journey further blurs the line between fiction and reality, showcasing the powerful connection between personal history and artistic expression.
Gemma Collins
The TV personality, often referred to as "The GC," is best known for her captivating appearances on "The Only Way Is Essex." Her journey delves into her Essex roots, uncovering a family member she never knew she had. Collins's episode promises emotional revelations and a deeper understanding of her family's history.
Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill
The retired athlete, a three-time world champion and a renowned Olympic gold medalist, travels to Jamaica to explore her family history. Her journey reveals the remarkable story of her relative's journey from enslavement to land ownership, highlighting a powerful tale of resilience and personal achievement.
Who Do You Think You Are? returns on Thursday 15th August at 9pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
Get ready to delve into captivating family histories, uncovering emotional journeys and revealing stories that will stay with you long after the credits roll.
