Ep 1. Mandy Moore

Mandy Moore, the popular American actress, singer, and songwriter, features in the first episode of the eleventh season of Who Do You Think You Are? In this series, celebrities explore their family histories, digging deep into their ancestry, to reveal hidden stories, secrets, and patterns that have shaped their lives.

Mandy Moore's episode opens in Los Angeles, California, where she grew up. She is fascinated to learn that her paternal grandfather was a boxer in the navy in the 1930s, and that he won several medals for his prowess in the ring. Mandy's father, Don, shares some old family photographs and tells her that his father, whom he describes as a larger-than-life character, loved to travel and tell stories of his boxing days.

Next, Mandy travels to Florida to delve into her maternal grandmother's roots. She meets with a distant cousin who gives her some old family letters and documents that provide clues about her family's origins. Mandy learns that her grandmother's family came from England and Scotland and settled in Florida in the late 19th century. She also discovers that her great-grandfather was a well-known judge and lawyer who fought for women's rights and was a prominent member of the community.

In her third quest, Mandy heads to New York City to explore her Jewish heritage on her mother's side. She visits a synagogue where her great-grandparents worshiped and meets with a genealogist who helps her uncover some surprising details about her family's past. Mandy learns that her great-great-grandfather was a successful businessman in Russia who was murdered in a pogrom, and that his wife and children fled to the United States for safety. Mandy is deeply moved to learn about her family's resilience in the face of such tragedy and persecution.

In the final part of the episode, Mandy visits a genealogist in London, England, to trace her roots back to the 16th century. She learns that her ancestors lived in a small village in Essex, where they worked as farmers and craftsmen. Mandy is surprised to discover that her family had a connection to well-known English writers, including William Shakespeare and Samuel Pepys. She also discovers that her ancestors were involved in a local uprising in the late 16th century, which led to several of them being imprisoned and executed for their role in the rebellion.

Throughout the episode, Mandy is emotional and reflective as she uncovers the many unexpected twists and turns in her family history. She is moved to tears on several occasions, particularly when she learns of her ancestors' hardships and sacrifices. Mandy's journey of discovery ultimately gives her a deeper understanding of herself and her place in the world. She is left with a newfound sense of pride and gratitude for her family's legacy and the stories that have been passed down through generations.