Ep 7. Bill Paxton

In the seventh episode of the exciting sixth season of Who Do You Think You Are?, we get to follow the beloved character actor Bill Paxton on his journey to discover his family's past. Paxton is famous for playing unforgettable characters in iconic movies such as Titanic, Apollo 13, and Twister, but he has never delved into his roots before.

Paxton starts his journey in Fort Worth, Texas, where he grew up. He recounts how his father always kept a tight-lipped silence about their family's past, and how he always felt some kind of mystery hanging around his lineage. Paxton goes to meet with his Aunt Jean, his father's sister, who has kept records and documents about their family history. She hands him old photographs, letters, and newspaper clippings that help Paxton piece together his ancestral narrative.

The journey takes Paxton to New Orleans, where he learns about his French heritage and revolutionary ancestors through his mother's lineage. He discovers that his great-great-grandfather was a captain in the Union Army during the American Civil War and fought in the Battle of Mobile Bay. Through letters and personal accounts, Paxton discovers how his ancestor was a significant player in this historic event that helped secure victory for the Union. In another part of his mother's lineage, Paxton discovers the story of how his great-grandfather was a renowned Louisiana chef who cooked for various Hollywood stars in the early 20th century.

The journey also takes Paxton to Kentucky, where he learns about his father's side of the family's deep roots in the state, beginning with his great-great-grandfather. After serving in the Confederate Army, Paxton's ancestor became a political figure, serving as the Speaker of the Kentucky House of Representatives. Paxton uncovers a dark family secret his great-great-great-uncle married his own first cousin in secret, which caused a scandal after she later gave birth to their child. In learning about this family scandal, Paxton also comes to understand why his father was reluctant to talk about his family's history: this shameful episode in their past.

Throughout the episode, Paxton shows a deep connection and passion for learning about his family's history. He is moved to tears by his ancestors' stories and feels a renewed sense of connection to his roots. Paxton's search uncovers fascinating details about his family's place in American history, from revolutionary heroes to war veterans to chefs and politicians. His discovery also sheds light on why his father might have been so reluctant to talk about his own family's deep secrets, and Paxton's journey serves as a moving reminder of how our past shapes who we are today.