Dame Harriet Walter’s family history is the focus of the latest episode of the BBC One series "Who Do You Think You Are?" airing at 9 p.m. The programme traces the actor’s ancestry across several countries, beginning in London’s Whitehall and extending to Modena, Italy, before concluding in Australia.

The episode reveals previously unknown aspects of Walter’s heritage, including her mother’s involvement in secret naval intelligence work during World War II. This element of her family history highlights an important, though largely unpublicized, contribution to the war effort. Additionally, the episode explores the artistic passions of her great-great-grandparents, whose dedication to the arts is suggested to have influenced Walter’s own distinguished career in acting.

Through archival documents and expert interviews, the show provides a multifaceted view of Walter’s lineage, combining personal discovery with broader historical context. The journey is described as a poignant examination of identity, connecting the actress’s present accomplishments with her ancestors’ legacies.