Ep 2. Julie Bowen

Julie Bowen, the Emmy Award-winning actress most widely known for her portrayal of Claire Dunphy on the hit television show Modern Family, is the focus of the second episode of season 9 of Who Do You Think You Are? This episode takes viewers on a journey back in time to explore Julie's family history and uncover ancestral secrets.

The episode begins by introducing viewers to Julie, her career, and her family life. While Julie has always been interested in genealogy, she has never had the opportunity to dig deep into her own family's past. With the help of the show's researchers, Julie starts her journey with very little information - just a few family names and a handful of photographs.

The first stop on Julie's journey is in Italy, where her great-grandfather on her mother's side originated from. Julie visits the small Italian village where he was born and raised, and meets with local historians and family members who share stories about his life. Julie is surprised to learn about the hardships her great-grandfather faced as an immigrant to the United States, and the sacrifices he made to give his family a better life.

Next, Julie travels to Pennsylvania to learn about her father's side of the family. She discovers that her great-grandfather worked in the coal mines, a dangerous and sometimes deadly job, to support his family. Julie is moved by the stories of her ancestors' struggles and determination, and takes this knowledge back to her own life.

The journey takes a turn when Julie travels to Germany, where her ancestors on her mother's side hail from. She discovers that her great-great-grandfather was a successful businessman who owned multiple breweries, but also learns about his darker side. Julie is shocked to find out that he was a member of the Nazi party, and even more surprised to learn that her own family members suffered at the hands of the Nazi regime.

As Julie continues to explore her family's past, she learns about World War II and the role her ancestors played in it. She travels to Poland to visit a concentration camp where her distant relatives were imprisoned, and is filled with emotion at the horrors they endured. Julie also discovers that her grandfather on her father's side fought in World War II, and she visits the battlefield where he was injured.

Throughout the episode, Julie is accompanied by genealogical experts who help her make sense of the documents and information she uncovers. She is also supported by her family, who join her on some of her travels and provide emotional support.

In the end, Julie's journey comes full circle as she returns home with a newfound appreciation for her ancestors and their struggles. She is moved to tears as she reflects on the sacrifices they made for their families, and how they paved the way for her own success. The episode concludes with Julie sharing her newfound knowledge and appreciation with her children, hoping to pass on the lessons of perseverance and determination to future generations.

Overall, Who Do You Think You Are? season 9 episode 2 is a moving and enlightening look at Julie Bowen's family history. Viewers will be transported through time and across continents as they follow Julie's journey of self-discovery and learn about the lives and struggles of her ancestors.