Ep 4. Sean Hayes

Sean Hayes, the star of the hit television show "Will & Grace," takes a journey into his family's past in season 6, episode 4 of "Who Do You Think You Are?" With a curiosity about his ancestry sparked by his father's sudden death, Hayes delves into the lives of his ancestors in hopes of discovering more about himself as well.

The episode begins with Hayes meeting with genealogist Lisa Kudrow to discuss his family history. Kudrow reveals that his great-grandmother, Ellen, was from Ireland and lived through the Great Famine before immigrating to the United States. Hayes is shocked by this information and immediately sets out to learn more about his Irish roots.

Hayes travels to Ireland and visits the town where Ellen was born. He meets with local historians who explain the devastating impact that the Famine had on the area and on Ellen's family. Hayes is deeply moved by the stories of the suffering his ancestors endured and the tenacity they showed in the face of adversity.

Next, Hayes turns his attention to his paternal grandfather's side of the family, which has its roots in Poland. With the help of a Polish genealogist, Hayes discovers that his grandfather was born into a Jewish family and likely fled Poland during the Second World War. Shocked by this revelation, Hayes travels to Poland to learn more about this part of his family history.

In Poland, Hayes visits the site of the Warsaw Ghetto, where his grandfather's family may have been confined during the war. He also meets with a Jewish genealogist who is able to track down some records of his grandfather's family, providing valuable insight into their lives before and during the war.

Throughout his journey, Hayes is struck by the resilience of his ancestors in the face of unimaginable hardship. He also gains a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices they made to provide better lives for their descendants. Along the way, he uncovers surprising connections to his own life and career, as well as the ways in which his family history has shaped who he is today.

Overall, season 6, episode 4 of "Who Do You Think You Are?" offers a poignant exploration of one man's journey through his family's past. With its focus on resilience, sacrifice, and the power of history to shape our lives, this episode is sure to resonate with viewers.