When is DNA Journey on TV?
The first episode of the new series of DNA Journey will be broadcast on ITV at 9pm on Wednesday 9 October 2024, followed by new episodes every week.
What is DNA Journey?
DNA Journey is ITV’s major family history series. Similar to BBC One’s Who Do You Think You Are?, it follows celebrities who want to discover more about their family history, but with a couple of differences – in each episode, two celebrity friends go on their DNA journey together, and they use DNA tests to start their journey.
DNA Journey began with a 2019 show following Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly as they uncovered their family histories. It is produced by Ant and Dec’s production company Mitre Television, along with Voltage TV. Three more series of the programme, featuring other celebrity duos, have been broadcast since then.
Who is on the new series of DNA Journey?
Six new pairs of celebrities will appear in the new series of DNA Journey. The first episode stars Life on Mars actors John Simm and Philip Glenister. The other celebrity duos are:
- Royle Family actors Ricky Tomlinson and Sue Johnston
- Comedians Jo Brand and Julian Clary
- Cold Feet stars Fay Ripley and Hermione Norris (pictured above)
- I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! friends Sam Thompson and Marvin Humes
- Stay Close actors Sarah Parish and Jimmy Nesbitt
The series promises some emotional revelations unearthed using DNA technology and genealogy research. As well as stories from the UK, discoveries will take pairs off to Canada, France and Jamaica.
Expect intriguing stories of unknown ancestors as well as meetings with living relatives and some surprising tear-jerking moments as the celebrities develop a deeper understanding of their roots.
Louise Major, who commissioned the series for ITV said: “DNA Journey is an extraordinary series that offers a unique glimpse into the lives of so many brilliant celebrities. It is a privilege to be granted intimate access to their personal journeys and to share their experiences with the audience. This series is packed with life-changing revelations and gratifying discoveries that are sure to touch everyone’s hearts.”
The series is sponsored by Ancestry, who worked with the production company on the research. Brad Argent from Ancestry said: “Solid research, world class science, and a little bit of good luck have uncovered a fantastic line-up of rich and varied stories – all made relatable by a celebrity cast that bring themselves to every moment. It’s such a privilege to be part of this must-see TV.”
Who else has been on DNA Journey?
The complete lineup of celebrity pairs who’ve previously been on DNA Journey is:
- TV presenters Anthony ‘Ant’ McPartlin and Declan ‘Dec’ Donnelly
- Cricketer Freddie Flintoff and footballer Jamie Redknapp
- TV personalities Alan Carr and Amanda Holden
- Martin Kemp of Spandau Ballet and his DJ son Roman.
- The Chase stars Anne Hegerty and Shaun Wallace
- Ice-skating duo Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean
- Actors Maureen Lipman and Rula Lenska
- Comedians Rob Beckett and Romesh Ranganathan
- Daytime TV queens Kate Garraway and Alison Hammond
- Actors Alison Steadman and Larry Lamb
- Comedians Joel Dommett and Tom Allen
- Actors John Bishop and Hugh Bonneville
- Actor and comedian Johnny Vegas and TV presenter and sports journalist Alex Brooker
- Actors Adrian Dunbar and Neil Morrissey
- Professional dancers and sisters Oti and Motsi Mabuse
Where can I watch previous episodes of DNA Journey?
All previous episodes of DNA Journey are available to watch on ITV’s website.