Ep 5. Chris Noth

In season 8, episode 5 of the hit genealogy television series Who Do You Think You Are?, we follow actor Chris Noth as he delves into his family history and uncovers some surprising and emotionally charged revelations.

Noth begins his journey by exploring his father's side of the family, starting with his paternal grandfather, Charles Noth. Charles was a successful lawyer and judge in Wisconsin, but Noth is intrigued by rumors that he was involved in some shady dealings. Noth visits the Wisconsin State Historical Society to pore over archives and find out more about his grandfather's career. He discovers that Charles was a key player in one of the most infamous trials in Wisconsin history: the case of Dr. R. A. Dillon.

Dr. Dillon had been accused of murdering his wife and mother-in-law, and Charles Noth was the presiding judge at his trial. Noth is shocked to learn that the case was highly controversial and divisive, with many people convinced of Dillon's guilt while others believed he was innocent. Noth reads through transcripts of the trial and talks to legal experts to try to understand the complex case and his grandfather's role in it.

Noth's investigation takes him deeper into his family tree when he discovers that his great-grandfather, also named Charles Noth, was a German immigrant who fought in the Civil War for the Union Army. Noth travels to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, to explore the battlefield where his great-grandfather fought and to meet with historians who can tell him more about what it was like to serve in the war. He is moved by the stories of bravery and sacrifice he hears and gains a new appreciation for the struggles his ancestors faced.

Next, Noth turns his attention to his mother's side of the family, specifically her father, John Keenan. Keenan was a successful businessman who owned a number of bars in Madison, Wisconsin, in the 1920s and 1930s. But Noth is curious about rumors that Keenan was involved in bootlegging and other underground activities during Prohibition. He visits the Wisconsin Historical Society again to dig up old court records and newspaper articles that shed light on his grandfather's double life.

Noth's research leads him to Chicago, where he learns more about the notorious gangster Al Capone and his role in organized crime during Prohibition. He also speaks with experts in law enforcement and journalism to get a sense of the atmosphere of the time and the challenges faced by those trying to uphold the law. Noth is surprised and saddened by what he learns about his grandfather's involvement in these illegal activities, but he also feels a sense of empathy for the struggles that led him down that path.

Finally, Noth tracks down a mysterious figure from his mother's side of the family: her grandfather's business partner, a man named Charles. Noth discovers that Charles was actually a woman named Charlotte, who disguised herself as a man to be taken seriously in her business dealings. Noth marvels at the bravery and ingenuity of his ancestor and reflects on the ways in which women's roles and identities have changed over the generations.

Throughout his journey, Noth grapples with the complex legacy of his forebears, grappling with the dark moments as well as the moments of triumph and heroism. He connects with relatives he never knew he had and comes away with a deeper understanding and appreciation of his roots. Who Do You Think You Are? delivers another poignant and illuminating episode with Chris Noth.