David Walliams finds out showbiz is in his genes in the new series of Who Do You Think You Are?
Britain’s Got Talent judge David once spoofed the show with Harry Enfield, in a sketch that had the Queen in a version called Who Does One Think One Is?
But that did not stop him being “delighted” to sign up for the new run.
In it he learns his great, great grandfather was a blind, travelling entertainer.
Yesterday, David, 49, who also uncovers a tragic story of his paternal great grandad’s experiences after the First World War, admitted he knew little about his ancestry before filming.
He said: “Making the programme I found out lots. I was pleased to discover being an entertainer runs in the family.”
Doctor Who star Jodie Whittaker, Gavin & Stacey’s Ruth Jones and Silent Witness favourite Liz Carr also feature in the series. Ruth, 54, learns her paternal grandad was a key player in the Medical Aid Societies of South Wales, which provided a model for the NHS, and finds globe-trotting mariners on her mum’s side.
She described filming of the documentary as “one of the best experiences I’ve ever had”.
The Mirror revealed Jodie, 38, would be on the show last year. She discovers the poignant reality behind a family myth surrounding her great uncle’s sacrifice in the First World War.
The mum-of-one said she felt “lucky to meet some wonderful people whose insight into history blew my mind.”
Meanwhile Liz, 48, uncovers her grandad’s time in the Navy and an ancestor’s role in an attempted murder.
Four episodes of the BBC1 series will air this autumn, with more next year.
