Vicky McClure Explores Family History on BBC's Who Do You Think You Are?

Actress Vicky McClure is set to delve into her great-grandfather's harrowing experiences as a Japanese prisoner of war during World War II in an upcoming episode of BBC's genealogy show, Who Do You Think You Are? Scheduled to air on Thursday at 9 PM, the episode features McClure, known for her roles in Line of Duty and Trigger Point, as she uncovers the tragic story of Harry Millership, who was interned in Taiwan after being captured in Singapore. In a preview clip, McClure expresses her emotional response to her ancestor's "horrific" ordeal, revealing the grim conditions faced by Millership and his fellow soldiers. At just 17, he enlisted in the Royal Navy and was deployed on December 8, 1941, the day of the Japanese attack. The episode highlights the brutal journey he endured, including being transported in an airless hold with minimal supplies before being forced to work in a copper mine upon arrival at the POW camp. Reflecting on her family's history, McClure emphasizes the importance of remembering such events, stating, "It is so important to keep this history really close and make sure the kids know about it." She acknowledges the struggles many veterans faced in sharing their experiences, underscoring the significance of preserving these stories for future generations. McClure is among several celebrities featured in the new series, which has previously helped notable figures like J.K. Rowling and Shirley Ballas explore their ancestry. Executive producer Colette Flight noted that the show often evokes a range of emotions as participants learn about their ancestors' lives.