Ep 5. Brooke Shields

Brooke Shields is the focus of the fifth episode of season one of the show Who Do You Think You Are? The series is a genealogy show where celebrities trace their ancestry to uncover surprising revelations about their family history. In this episode, the iconic actress and model Brooke Shields travels to New York City, New Jersey, and Washington D.C. to learn about her mother's family.

Shields begins her journey in New York, where she visits both the hospital where she was born and the home in which she grew up. There, she discovers that her mother had a mysterious and tumultuous childhood. Her maternal grandmother passed away when her mother was young, leaving her mother to be raised by her father, a strict disciplinarian. Shields is shocked to learn that her mother's biological mother was just a teenager when she had her. This information sets Shields on a mission to uncover exactly who her mother's biological mother was and what happened to her.

Next, Shields travels to New Jersey to meet with a genealogist who helps her trace her mother's family tree. Shields discovers that her maternal great-grandfather was a wealthy businessman who owned a successful brewery. However, he suffered from a severe case of alcoholism, which eventually led to his downfall. Shields also learns about a tragic incident involving her great-grandfather's sister, which further deepens her understanding of her family's complex history.

Finally, Shields travels to Washington D.C. to research her mother's biological lineage. She discovers that her mother's mother was part of a large family from rural Pennsylvania. With the help of a historian, Shields learns about the struggles her mother's family faced before and during the Great Depression. She also uncovers a surprising connection to a famous artist, which inspires her to reflect on her own creative pursuits.

Throughout the episode, Shields is deeply moved by the stories she uncovers about her family's past. She reflects on the impact that her ancestors had on her own life, and gains new insight into the resilience and strength of her maternal lineage. As she concludes her journey, Shields feels a renewed sense of connection to her family and a deeper appreciation for the power of family history.