Ep 10. Criminal Kind

In the tenth episode of the sixth season of "Finding Your Roots," titled "Criminal Kind," host Henry Louis Gates Jr. explores the family histories of three guests whose ancestors were involved in various criminal activities.

The first guest is Laura Linney, a well-known actress known for her roles in films like "The Truman Show" and "The Savages." Gates reveals that Linney's ancestor, Samuel G. Churchill, was a con man who spent time in prison for forgery. As Gates uncovers more about Churchill's life, he begins to understand the impact that his criminal actions may have had on his descendants.

Next up is Michael Strahan, former NFL player and current co-host of "Good Morning America." Strahan learns that his great-grandfather, Thomas Bell, was a bootlegger during Prohibition. Gates discovers that Bell may have played a role in the notorious Black Sox Scandal of 1919, in which several baseball players were accused of fixing the World Series. Strahan is shocked to learn about his ancestor's shady past, but also finds it fascinating to delve into a part of history that he knew little about.

Lastly, Gates introduces artist and entrepreneur Marina Abramović. Abramović had a tumultuous childhood in Yugoslavia, and Gates discovers that her great-grandfather, Nikola Cegar, was a member of the notorious Black Hand, a criminal organization that terrorized the area in the early 20th century. Abramović grapples with the idea that her own artistic experimentation may have been influenced by the trauma and violence in her family's past.

As always, Gates uses his expertise and charm to guide his guests through the emotional and historical journey of discovering their roots. "Criminal Kind" is a fascinating exploration of how family secrets and criminal histories can shape our understanding of ourselves and our place in the world.