Ant and Dec go on a DNA journey with ITV

Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly are to trace their roots in a two-part special for ITV.

“This documentary captured Ant and Dec at an intersection in their lives. I feel sure the ITV viewers will be on the edge of their seats watching twists and turns of their DNA journey unfold, and their honesty and openness, will leave a lasting heart print.” – Siobhan Greene, former ITV’s Head of Entertainment Commissioning

In Ant & Dec’s DNA Journey viewers will see them navigate a tougher terrain than the Australian jungle. Guided by expert genealogists and historians, the pair will follow their maternal and paternal blood lines using their DNA to search their ancestral history.

As their travels take them to Ireland and the US, including The United Nations Headquarters, the popular presenting duo will not only delve into their past but will also meet relatives they had heretofore never heard of, unveiling some truly shocking revelations that only their DNA could unlock.

“A huge part of this was to find out my heritage, especially on my dad’s side. I always thought I knew a fair bit about where I came from but it turns out I was wrong! Whilst it was incredible to find out about the past, what was hugely overwhelming was to meet relatives neither of us knew we had. It was a truly amazing experience.” – Dec Donnelly

Whose great grandfather is a celebrated war hero and whose DNA cousin is a former US female wrestling promoter? Whose ancestors’ bones were deemed ‘of historical importance’ and who discovers that they are a descendant from Royalty?

As Ant and Dec embark on their journey, viewers will be treated to a rare and personal glimpse into their remarkable friendship with their warmth and infectious humour that has not only captured the nation over the years, but has seen them achieve huge success resulting in a multitude of awards and accolades.

Ant and Dec’s DNA Journey was commissioned by Siobhan Greene when she was ITV’s Head of Entertainment Commissioning and Louise Major Assistant Commissioner, Entertainment, ITV.

“I’m a bit of a geek when it comes to historical events, so to get the chance to research our family history using our DNA was too good an opportunity to pass up. What we find out is mind-blowing and nothing either of us could ever have imagined. It’s something that will stay with us both forever.” Ant McPartlin

The show is a Voltage TV and Mitre Television co-production for ITV.