Amanda Holden's Emotional ‘Who Do You Think You Are?’ Episode Inspires Viewers To Share Their Family Stories

The 'BGT' judge made a number of discoveries about her grandfather.

Following Danny Dyer’s unforgettable exploration of his family’s history, it was Amanda Holden’s turn in the ‘Who Do You Think You Are?’ hotseat on Thursday (1 December).

But while the ‘EastEnders’ actor’s episode took a number of comedic turns, Amanda confronted more serious issues, learning more about her grandfather, Frank Holden, who completed suicide.

Amanda Holden
Amanda Holden
BBC Pictures

Frank’s death came after World War II, and he was one of the survivors when the RMS Lancastria sank.

Amanda said (via Digital Spy): “Learning about Frank’s story was just incredible for me. He was a survivor, he was one of the lucky ones from this disaster.

“I hope this story will keep the memory alive for the thousands who didn’t make it back home.”

Unusprisingly, the episode struck a chord with a number of viewers:

#WhoDoYouThinkYouAre Great episode recalling the forgotten Lancastria tragedy & @AmandaHolden 's truly valiant & fearless ancestors 👏 xx

— Jane P (@foggy_doodoo) December 2, 2016

What an another amazing episode of #WhoDoYouThinkYouAre #wdytya with @AmandaHolden two amazing stories hope Amanda carry on searching

— Adɑɑm (@AdamTheSoapKing) December 1, 2016

@AmandaHolden Shocked to learn the story of the #Lacastria on #wdytya So many heroes lost in time...until now.

— Caroline Davis (@Diva_Caroline1) December 2, 2016

It also inspired a number of people to share their family stories:

My grandad was a survivor of the same shipwreck as @AmandaHolden's grandfather. More deaths than the Titanic. #wdytya https://t.co/fdxnh5ILLe

— John Lee (@johnleee) December 1, 2016

@CeliaHeritage @AmandaHolden @wdytyamagazine my father narrowly missed boarding and ended up being part of the liberation of Bergen Belsen

— Sue (@sjljersey) December 1, 2016

@WDYTYA_UK @AmandaHolden This is my 99 year old uncle who survived the disaster remembering the disaster. He remembers likewere yesterday

— sgb (@sgb5) December 1, 2016

@AmandaHolden My grandad only got recognition for losing his dad aboard the Lancastria last year Amanda, such a sad story.

— RyanDrewery (@RyanDrewery) December 1, 2016

‘Who Do You Think You Are?’ continues next week, with presenter Liz Bonnin discovery more about her ancestry.

Watch Amanda’s episode again here.

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