Who Do You Think You Are? Season 4 Episode 8

Ep 8. Jim Parsons

  • TV-PG
  • September 10, 2013
  • 42 min
  • 8.4  (65)

Who Do You Think You Are? is a genealogy documentary series that follows celebrities as they investigate their family history, discovering surprising and emotional stories about their ancestors. In season 4 episode 8, the focus is on actor Jim Parsons, best known for his role as Sheldon Cooper on the hit sitcom The Big Bang Theory.

Parsons begins his journey by exploring his paternal ancestry, learning that his great-grandfather, Walter Parsons, was a respected and successful businessman in the small town of Greenville, Texas. However, as he digs deeper, Parsons discovers that Walter's success came at a steep cost: he was known for his strict and abusive manner towards his family. Parsons is shocked to learn that his own grandfather, who he remembers as a kind and loving man, was actually forced to drop out of school and work long hours to support the family business. Pained by this revelation, Parsons reflects on the impact that this legacy of abuse and trauma may have had on his own family.

Next, Parsons turns his attention to his mother's side of the family, uncovering a legacy of service and sacrifice. His great-grandfather, Frank Hale, was a World War I veteran who suffered from debilitating injuries that left him unable to work. Despite this, he was determined to provide for his family and went on to establish a successful business in Wichita Falls, Texas. Hale's daughter, Parsons' grandmother, was also an inspiration: a talented musician who taught piano and violin to students, even as she struggled with her own health issues.

Parsons is moved to tears as he learns the full extent of his family's sacrifices, and feels a sense of pride in his heritage. He reflects on the impact that these stories of perseverance and resilience can have on his own life, and the importance of honoring the legacy of those who came before us.

Throughout the episode, Parsons is guided on his journey by experts in genealogy and local history, who share fascinating insights into the social, political, and cultural contexts of his ancestors' lives. And as he explores his family history, he gains a deeper appreciation for the intricacy and complexity of human experience, and the role that our family stories play in shaping our identities and understanding of the world.

Description
Watch Who Do You Think You Are? - Jim Parsons (s4 e8) Online - Watch online anytime: Buy, Rent
Who Do You Think You Are?, Season 4 Episode 8, is available to watch and stream on TLC. You can also buy, rent Who Do You Think You Are? on demand at Vudu, TLC, FuboTV, Google Play, Apple TV online.
  • First Aired
    September 10, 2013
  • Content Rating
    TV-PG
  • Runtime
    42 min
  • Language
    English
  • IMDB Rating
    8.4  (65)