Ep 5. Molly Shannon

Molly Shannon, the comedian and actress, is the focus of this episode on Who Do You Think You Are? as she delves into her family's past to uncover hidden stories and secrets. As a child, Molly lost her mother to cancer and grew up with few memories of her family history. She begins her journey by visiting her father's childhood home in Ohio and learning about the sacrifices her grandparents made for their family during the Great Depression.

Molly then travels to Ireland to explore her maternal roots and discover where her mother's family came from. She visits the small village where her great-grandparents once lived and learns about the hardships they faced as farmers during a time of political turmoil. She also uncovers a shocking family secret that has been kept hidden for generations.

Back in the United States, Molly turns her attention to her paternal grandmother's side of the family and visits a graveyard where many of her ancestors are buried. She discovers stories of bravery and tragedy, including her great-grandfather who survived being held captive at Andersonville Prison during the Civil War.

Throughout the episode, Molly reflects on how learning about her family's past has impacted her sense of identity and helped her understand herself better. She also shares personal stories about her own journey as a performer and the importance of connecting with others through storytelling.

By the end of the episode, Molly has a deeper appreciation for her family's resilience in the face of adversity and a greater understanding of where she comes from. Who Do You Think You Are? continues to be a powerful tool for exploring the human experience through the lens of genealogy and family history.