Harriet Walter, known for her roles in "Killing Eve" and "Succession," explores her family history in the latest episode of the BBC series "Who Do You Think You Are?" airing on BBC1 at 9 p.m. The actress embarks on a journey tracing her maternal lineage, revealing previously little-known details about her relatives and their diverse experiences.

While it is widely recognized that Walter is the niece of the late Christopher Lee, the iconic actor of Dracula fame, she notably refrains from discussing him during her genealogical investigation. Instead, Walter directs attention to her mother, Xandra, who worked in naval intelligence during World War II. Through archival research and expert interviews, Walter uncovers the significance of Xandra’s wartime contributions, delving into the possibility that she collaborated with Ian Fleming, the author of the James Bond series.

Further into the episode, Walter traces her Italian ancestry on her mother’s side, focusing on a forebear named Girolamo. Originating from Modena in the 1830s, Girolamo’s life is marked by a series of setbacks and challenges as he emigrated to Tasmania. Despite his struggles, Girolamo’s marriage to Maria, a talented young singer based in Hobart, stands out. Maria would later gain recognition as a celebrated opera diva and become a trailblazer in balancing a professional career with motherhood during a period when such achievements were uncommon.

Through her research, Walter confronts family dynamics and historical contexts that shaped the lives of her ancestors, offering viewers insight into the complexities of heritage and the influences that have defined her own identity.