Legendary Geordie presenting duo Ant and Dec, real names Anthony McPartlin OBE and Declan Donnelly OBE, traced their family histories for the new two-part show, Ant and Dec’s DNA Journey, which will air during November on ITV (UK).
“They quickly established themselves as the kings of British TV – but during the making of the new show, one of the pair discovered that they had actual royal blood”
This ‘Who Do You Think You Are?’ style series sees the popular double act explore their maternal and paternal blood lines using their DNA to uncover their ancestral history, with the help genealogists and historians. They quickly established themselves as the kings of British TV – but during the making of the new show, one of the pair discovered that they had actual royal blood. Viewers will also see the presenters uncover the story of a great-grandfather who was a celebrated war hero, and a connection to a former US female wrestling promoter, while one of them will find out their ancestors’ bones are deemed of historical importance
It’s an emotional journey as Ant and Dec uncover stories about their ancestors, but their trademark warm sense of humour is never far away. The documentary offers a rare glimpse into their remarkable friendship and close bond.
Discussing the upcoming programme, Ant said: “I’m a bit of a geek when it comes to historical events, so to get the chance to research our family history using our DNA was too good an opportunity to pass up.
“I always thought I knew a fair bit about where I came from but it turns out I was wrong!”
“What we find out is mind-blowing and nothing either of us could ever have imagined. It’s something that will stay with us both forever.”
Dec added: “A huge part of this was to find out my heritage, especially on my dad’s side.”
“I always thought I knew a fair bit about where I came from but it turns out I was wrong! Whilst it was incredible to find out about the past, what was hugely overwhelming was to meet relatives neither of us knew we had. It was a truly amazing experience.”
Siobhan Greene, who commissioned the show when she was ITV’s Head of Entertainment, said: “This documentary captured Ant and Dec at an intersection in their lives. I feel sure the ITV viewers will be on the edge of their seats watching twists and turns of their DNA journey unfold, and their honesty and openness, will leave a lasting heart print.”
Ant & Dec’s DNA Journey starts on ITV on Sunday 10 November at 9pm.