Ep 5. Beyond The Pale

In episode 5 of season 6 of Finding Your Roots, entitled "Beyond The Pale," viewers are taken on a journey to explore the ancestry of three prominent public figures: author, Ta-Nehisi Coates; actress, Scarlett Johansson; and filmmaker, Marlo Thomas.

First up on the show is Ta-Nehisi Coates. Viewers will get an in-depth look at the author's family history, and his journey to discover his roots. Coates, who is best known for his books Between the World and Me, We Were Eight Years in Power, and The Water Dancer, delves into the history of slavery, and his own family's involvement in the institution. He also learns about his ancestors' journey from the rural South to the urban North during the Great Migration.

Next, Scarlett Johansson's family tree is explored, and the actress learns about her immigrant ancestors from Eastern Europe. Viewers will get an inside look at her family history and how her great-grandfather's journey to America has influenced her own family's identity. The episode also highlights how Johansson's Jewish heritage has contributed to her personal and professional life.

Finally, filmmaker Marlo Thomas discovers her ancestry and learns about her family's roots in Palestine and Sicily. Thomas is well-known for her work on the TV series That Girl, and is also an active supporter of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Viewers will get an inside look at the unique challenges that came with tracing her family's history due to the destruction of records in the part of the world where her ancestors originated.

As with all episodes of Finding Your Roots, the show goes beyond genealogy and highlights the impact of family history on individuals and society as a whole. The show also touches on issues of race, identity, and heritage, and how these subjects can have lasting impacts on our lives.

Overall, "Beyond The Pale" is a fascinating look at the ancestry of three public figures, and the complicated histories that led to their success. The episode provides a unique and personal look at the impact of family history on individuals, and serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding our roots.