Via ITV’s DNA Journey

Tom Allen has discovered that he is related to broadcaster Gloria Hunniford.

In tonight’s edition of ITV’s DNA Journey, the comic finds out that he has Irish roots, and is a cousin to the Portadown-born star on his mother’s side

The broadcaster has released a clip of Allen finding out about  the link, saying before he found out it was Hunniford: ‘I’m biting my nails. I’m so nervous…It’s really intimidating the whole thing. What if they’re slightly irritated by me? It’s exciting. I can’t rest.’

Allen also found that his great-grandparents went from a criminal past to a successful career on the stage and about the tragic turn that meant they had to give up their baby girl, Tom’s grandmother, for adoption.

The programme – which airs on ITV at 9pm – also delves into fellow comic Joel Dommett’s genealogy.

•  Tom Allen has announced three live dates in which he will discuss his new memoirs Too Much. He’ll be at London’s Alexandra Palace on November 8, the  Royal Exchange, Manchester on November 13 and the  Queens Hall, Edinburgh on November 15.

Published: 20 Oct 2022