Loose Woman panellist Gloria Hunniford made the shock discovery that she's related to a famous comedian.
The 82-year-old found out that Tom Allen is her long-lost cousin while taking part in ITV ancestry series DNA Journey. In a preview clip, Tom – who has learned he is related to a well-known celebrity - is seen waiting nervously in a bar.
“I’m so nervous. I’m biting my nails more than normal,” he tells fellow comic Joel Dommett, who is also tracing his family history on the show. Tom continues: “What if they are slightly irritated by me? It’s exciting, but I can’t rest.”
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A camera then films TV presenter Gloria as she walks in for the big reveal - much to Tom’s delight. Gloria – who also had no clue who she was meeting – looked shocked but happy to discover it was either Joel or Tom she is related to.
“Oh my goodness. I love both of you! I’m so shocked!” she tells the pair. Giving her a hug, Tom reveals: “I hear you’re my cousin.”
“Is it you?” Gloria asked, as Tom joked: “Oh, you’re disappointed.” Tom and Joel are the latest celebrities to take part in ITV’s DNA Journey to trace their ancestors.
Using detailed genealogy and cutting-edge DNA, the pair delve into their family history as they embark on a road trip around the UK. Tom discovers the emotional journey of his great grandparents, from a criminal past to successful career on the stage, meaning he also has showbusiness in his roots, reports the Mirror.
But a tragic turn meant they had to give up their baby girl, Tom’s beloved grandmother, for adoption. Meanwhile, Joel learns he has an ancestor who not once, but twice, made inventions that saved thousands of lives – and could be said helped to end the First World War.
Heading north, Joel – who says he has always felt rootless – discovers where his DNA truly belongs – and it’s a big surprise. Other stars to have recently taken part in the show include Good Morning Britain’s Kate Garraway, who was shocked to discover she has a real-life connection to Paddington Bear.
The 55-year-old TV presenter meets the daughter of Paddington creator Michael Bond – and finds they are cousins. As they meet for the first time, cousin Karen Jankel brings out a Paddington Bear toy and describes him as her brother.
She tells Kate: “I’m your cousin but the person I brought to meet you is my brother. Paddington and I grew up together. The reason is that my father was Michael Bond. Which means. of course, you are also related to Michael.”
Kate tells her: “Paddington Bear is my favourite thing! I’m related to Paddington Bear!” She also revealed her student nickname was Paddington because of her love of marmalade sandwiches.
The DNA Journey episode featuring Gloria Hunniford is set to air on ITV at 9pm on Thursday October 20
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