Who Do You Think You Are? to profile Paddy McGuinness' family

Grandfather 'had a key role in WW2'

Paddy McGuinness is to learn about his family history in the next series of Who Do You Think You Are?

In the BBC series, the comedian finds out about his grandfather’s key role during World War Two and investigates his McGuinness surname in Ireland, discovering he nearly wasn’t a McGuinness at all.

The show returns to BBC One this summer and also features Line Of Duty star Vicky McClure, pop stars Olly Murs and Mel C, actress and Stricty winner Rose Ayling-Ellis, reality TV personality Gemma Collins and Olympic gold medallist Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill

Simon Young, BBC head of history, says: ‘This year we have a stellar line up to mark 20 years of the nation’s favourite social history series.

‘Time and again it proves the old adage that truth is stranger than fiction, while helping us all to understand the history of Britain and the world much better, so it’s clear why our audiences have taken this series to their hearts.

‘I’m so grateful to all the celebrities who have shared their family histories, and to the incredible production team that pulls it all together.'

Colette Flight, executive producer for Wall to Wall Media added: ‘The celebrities have been moved to tears, laughter, anger and joy learning about their ancestors’ lives.’

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Published: 11 Jun 2024