There’s something about watching a celebrity uncover a long-lost ancestor that makes genealogy feel like a detective story. The BBC’s Who Do You Think You Are? has been delivering those moments since 2004, and in May 2026 it returns with a brand-new series – the 23rd – starring Zoe Ball and seven other well-known faces. We’ve gathered the latest confirmed details on the 2026 run, where to stream it, and answers to the questions viewers are asking most.

4 related posts

First aired: 2004 · Network: BBC One · Number of series: 23 (as of 2026) · Latest series: Series 23 (2026) · Celebrities featured: Over 200 · Typical episode length: 60 minutes

Quick snapshot

1Confirmed facts
2What’s unclear
  • Whether a Series 24 has been commissioned
  • Exact airdates for the second block of Series 23
  • International streaming availability beyond Netflix UK and BBC iPlayer
3Timeline signal
  • 26 May 2026: Series 23 debut (Radio Times)
  • Two-part release: four episodes starting May, four later in 2026 (Findmypast)
  • 2004: Series 1 premiered on BBC One (Radio Times)
4What’s next
  • Watch the first episode live on BBC One or catch up on iPlayer
  • Netflix UK will likely add the full series later (as it has with previous series)
  • International fans may need a VPN or wait for local broadcaster announcements
Source: BBC, Wikipedia, Radio Times, Digital Spy
Original network BBC One
First episode date 12 October 2004
Number of series 23 (as of 2026)
Number of episodes Over 170
Current presenter None (series uses voiceover; participants are the subjects)
Narrator Varies per episode; often a guest narrator

The table above distills the show’s key broadcast data into a single reference—useful for comparing how the 2026 series fits into the broader run.

Is there a new series of Who Do You Think You Are in 2026?

Yes. The BBC officially confirmed Series 23 of Who Do You Think You Are? in 2026. The first episode, featuring broadcaster Zoe Ball, airs on Tuesday 26 May 2026 at 9pm on BBC One (BBC programme page). Digital Spy (entertainment news outlet) calls the season “emotional” and a returning network staple.

What are the release dates for the 2026 series?

The 23rd series is split into two four-episode blocks. The first block launches on 26 May; the second block’s airdates have not yet been revealed. Findmypast (genealogy research platform) reported the two-part structure, noting it’s a change from recent single-block runs.

Why this matters

The split release means BBC One keeps the show in the conversation for months, giving viewers a reason to tune back in later in the year. For fans who binged previous series in one go, the gap may feel frustrating — but it also builds anticipation.

Who is confirmed to appear in the 2026 series?

The full line-up for Series 23 was revealed by Radio Times (the UK TV listings magazine):

  • Zoe Ball (broadcaster)
  • Adeel Akhtar (actor)
  • Amy Dowden (dancer)
  • Harriet Walter (actress)
  • Joe Swash (TV personality)
  • Katarina Johnson-Thompson (athlete)
  • Ruth Madeley (actress)
  • Toby Jones (actor)

The first episode, according to BBC programme metadata, follows Zoe Ball from Scotland to Cornwall and uncovers “stories of resilience and the importance of family history” (BBC summary).

What streaming service can I watch Who Do You Think You Are?

The show’s availability depends on your region. For UK viewers, there are two main routes:

  • BBC iPlayer – episodes are typically available for 12 months after broadcast.
  • Netflix UK – the UK version of the series has been licensed to Netflix, where previous series are streaming now (Netflix UK listing).

Outside the UK, the picture is patchier. The U.S. version (an adaptation of the British original) streams on Discovery+, Philo, and NBC’s Peacock (JustWatch). The Australian version is available on SBS On Demand. No global streaming deal for the UK series has been announced beyond the UK.

Is Who Do You Think You Are on Netflix?

Yes, but only the UK series on Netflix UK. If you have a UK Netflix subscription, you can watch every past series that has been added. However, Netflix US does not carry the British version — only the American adaptation (which is a separate production). IMDb (film and TV database) confirms the U.S. series is available on platforms like NBC, Bravo, and Syfy, but not on Netflix in America.

Where can I watch all episodes of Who Do You Think You Are?

The most complete archive is on BBC iPlayer, which as of 2026 lists 53 episodes from the series (BBC episode guide). Netflix UK also carries a large back catalogue, though not necessarily every episode. For completists, the BBC’s own pages remain the most reliable source.

Who is in the new series of Who Do You Think You Are?

As detailed above, the 2026 cast includes Zoe Ball, Adeel Akhtar, Amy Dowden, Harriet Walter, Joe Swash, Katarina Johnson-Thompson, Ruth Madeley, and Toby Jones. This is the first time some of these celebrities have publicly traced their family trees, and the BBC’s description of the Zoe Ball episode hints at surprising discoveries from Scotland to Cornwall (BBC).

Are there any other celebrities confirmed for the 2026 series?

That’s the complete line-up for Series 23. No additional guests have been announced, and it’s unlikely the BBC will add more given the two-block format. Any speculation about a 2026 cast beyond this list is unconfirmed.

Who has appeared on Who Do You Think You Are?

Since 2004, over 200 celebrities have taken part (Wikipedia). The show has covered everyone from actors and musicians to athletes and politicians. Notable past participants include:

  • J.K. Rowling (author)
  • Emilia Clarke (actress)
  • David Tennant (actor)
  • Ricky Gervais (comedian)
  • Danny Dyer (actor)
  • Claudia Winkleman (presenter)

The BBC’s episode guide (BBC) lists 53 available episodes, covering many of these stories.

What celebrities have been on the show?

Beyond the list above, Wikipedia maintains a comprehensive table. The show’s longevity means the answer changes every year, but the common thread is that each celebrity discovers something deeply personal about their ancestry.

The trade-off

While a high-profile cast draws viewers, some critics argue the show’s format — limited to celebrities — excludes the millions of ordinary people who are equally passionate about genealogy. The BBC has not announced plans to open the series to non-celebrities.

Is Who Do You Think You Are on Netflix?

Yes, but with a caveat: the UK series streams on Netflix UK. If you try to access it from another country, the Netflix library is different. The U.S. series (which is a separate show) is not on Netflix at all but is available on Discovery+ and NBC platforms (IMDb).

How to watch Who Do You Think You Are on Netflix?

If you have a UK Netflix subscription, simply search “Who Do You Think You Are”. The UK series will appear. Viewers outside the UK may need a VPN or wait for the show to be licensed in their country.

Netflix availability by region

As of early 2026, the UK series is confirmed on Netflix UK. Other regions, including the US, Canada, and Australia, do not carry the British version via Netflix. The Australian version is instead available on SBS On Demand free-to-air.

Timeline of Who Do You Think You Are?

  • 12 October 2004 – First episode airs on BBC One.
  • 2014 – 100th episode celebrated with a one-off special.
  • 26 May 2026 – Series 23 premieres with Zoe Ball.

The pattern: the show has maintained a near-annual cadence, with only a few breaks. The 2026 series continues that rhythm.

What we know vs. what we don’t

Confirmed facts

  • Series 23 airs from 26 May 2026 on BBC One (BBC)
  • Cast includes Zoe Ball, Adeel Akhtar, Amy Dowden, Harriet Walter, Joe Swash, Katarina Johnson-Thompson, Ruth Madeley, Toby Jones (Radio Times)
  • Episode length is 60 minutes for standard installments
  • Netflix UK carries the UK series

What’s unclear

  • Whether a Series 24 will be commissioned
  • Exact airdates for the second four-episode block
  • Global streaming rights for the UK series (outside UK)
  • Any future non-celebrity participation

Memorable quotes from the show

“Lost connections and unfamiliar histories are revealed as celebrities trace their family trees.”

– BBC One description (BBC)

“Who Do You Think You Are? is a British genealogy documentary series that has aired on the BBC since 2004.”

– Wikipedia (encyclopaedia entry)

Related reading: For another deep dive into family history – though of a different kind – read our Queen Mary of Denmark: Biography, Family, Marriage to Frederik. If you enjoy TV streaming guides, you might like He’s Just Not That Into You: Streaming, Meaning & Review.

Additional sources

en.wikipedia.org, facebook.com, evrimagaci.org, youtube.com, en.wikipedia.org, bbc.co.uk

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Frequently asked questions

How long is each episode of Who Do You Think You Are?

Each episode runs approximately 60 minutes on BBC One, though some specials have been longer.

Who created the show?

The show was created by Alex Graham and first produced by Wall to Wall Media for the BBC.

Is the show only for celebrities?

Yes – the UK version exclusively features well-known personalities. There is no ordinary participant application process.

Can ordinary people appear on the show?

No. The format is built around celebrities. However, the show has inspired many people to research their own family trees.

What countries have their own version of Who Do You Think You Are?

The series has been adapted in over 20 countries, including the US, Australia, Canada, Ireland, Sweden, South Africa, and Israel. Each version follows the same format with local celebrities.

How can I start researching my own family tree?

Many genealogy platforms offer free trials. Findmypast (genealogy research platform) and the UK National Archives provide guides for beginners.

Has the show won any awards?

Yes – it has won multiple BAFTA awards, including Best Factual Series, and several Royal Television Society Awards.