English comedian and television presenter Paddy McGuinness recently embarked on a deeply personal journey to uncover his ancestral roots, tracing them back to Ballina in North Mayo. This exploration will be featured in an upcoming episode of the popular BBC genealogy programme, Who Do You Think You Are?, airing this Thursday, August 22nd, at 9 p.m. on BBC One.
During his visit, McGuinness learned that his great-grandmother, Bridget McGuinness, was born in Ballina, a town rich in history and culture along the River Moy. With the guidance of genealogists, he delved into the lives of his ancestors, uncovering that his family were weavers in the linen trade during the 1830s—a period when the industry was in decline in Ireland. This economic hardship prompted the McGuinness family to emigrate to England, where they eventually settled in Bolton.
Image: Mayo North Tourism / Bartek Rybacki
The episode also highlights McGuinness’s emotional connection to Ballina, where he discovered his grandfather’s war medal, a poignant moment that he described as “holding a piece of history in my hand.” Additionally, he reflected on the possibility that his ancestors may have once played along the beautiful beaches of the west coast of Ireland, which further deepened his sense of connection to the region.
Interestingly, McGuinness also found out that his ancestors lived near the forebears of U.S. President Joe Biden in Ballina, adding a unique historical link to his family story.
This episode of Who Do You Think You Are? promises to be a moving exploration of heritage, migration, and the enduring bonds of family across generations. Don’t miss it on BBC One this Thursday at 9 p.m.