Actress Harriet Walter’s family history was the focus of a recent episode of the genealogy documentary series "Who Do You Think You Are?", now in its 23rd season. The program traced Walter’s maternal lineage, revealing a personal and compelling narrative that differed from the often familiar stories featured on the show.

Walter explored the life of her mother, Xandra, who worked in Admiralty intelligence during World War II. Despite being described within the family as “not very logical” and subjected to patronizing attitudes from her husband, Xandra played a significant role in the planning and execution of the Normandy landings, a crucial Allied operation in 1944. Walter expressed a deep admiration for her mother, emphasizing the contrast between Xandra’s underestimated public image and her secret wartime contributions.

While Walter’s paternal family—the Walter clan—is associated with a prominent media dynasty, she showed little interest in that lineage, describing it as “stiff and old-fashioned.” Instead, she focused on the women in her maternal line, highlighting their resilience and complexity.

Further back in her maternal ancestry, the episode uncovered stories about Walter’s Italian forebears, the Carandini family. One notable ancestor, Girolamo Carandini, attended a noble school in the early 19th century but was known for his rebellious behavior. Despite getting into financial trouble, being dismissed from the army, and eventually relocating to Tasmania—then known as Van Diemen’s Land—Girolamo’s life was marked by turbulence. Traveling across Australia with his wife, Maria, the couple brought opera to local audiences, though Girolamo continued to encounter difficulties. Maria supported him throughout these challenges.

Walter appeared forgiving of her ancestor’s flaws, contrasting with her more critical view of the men in the Walter family. The narrative underscored the prominence and strength of the women in her family history, who Walter suggested “dazzle” compared to their male counterparts.

The episode provided a nuanced look into Walter’s heritage, blending personal reflection with historical discovery, and offered a fresh perspective on a format often associated with predictable revelations.