John Simm Uncovers Shocking Family Secret in DNA Journey
Actor John Simm discovers his late father is not his biological parent on ITV's DNA Journey. The revelation leads to an emotional exploration of his true ancestry and a meeting with a newfound half-sister.
John Simm, renowned for his roles in "Life on Mars" and "Doctor Who," has made a startling discovery about his family history. The 54-year-old actor, born on July 10, 1970, learned that his late father, Ronald, is not his biological parent during his participation in ITV's "DNA Journey with Ancestry."
The revelation came as Simm, alongside his friend and former colleague Philip Glenister, 44, delved into their ancestries for the show's fifth series. Simm, who initially joined the program as a favor to Glenister, found himself on an unexpected emotional journey.
"It spun my world, and everything I thought I knew wasn't real."
The DNA test results prompted Simm to embark on a quest to uncover his biological lineage and learn about the father he never knew. This journey led to a poignant meeting with a previously unknown half-sister, adding a new dimension to his family story.
Simm's background as a musician's son, playing guitar in working men's clubs during the 1980s, took on new significance with this revelation. He discovered that his biological father had frequented the same area and clubs, creating an uncanny connection to his past.
The actor's life has been marked by significant roles and achievements. After graduating from the Drama Centre London in 1992, Simm made his professional acting debut in "Guys and Dolls" at Sheffield's Crucible Theatre. His breakthrough came in 1999 with the film "Human Traffic," leading to a diverse career that has earned him two BAFTA Award nominations for Best Actor.
Simm's versatility as an actor is evident in his wide-ranging roles, from the time-traveling detective Sam Tyler in "Life on Mars" to the Master in "Doctor Who." He has also showcased his talents on stage, appearing in productions of "Hamlet" and "Three Days in the Country."
Outside of acting, Simm is a musician who was part of the rock band Magic Alex from 2005 to 2007. He has been married to actress Kate Magowan since 2004, and they have two children together.
The DNA Journey episode captures Simm's emotional process as he navigates this life-changing information. It culminates in a heartwarming meeting with his half-sister, who shares photographs and video footage of Simm's biological father, providing a tangible connection to his newfound heritage.
"DNA Journey with Ancestry," featuring Simm's remarkable story, is set to premiere on Wednesday, October 9, 2024, at 9 pm on ITV1, ITVX, STV, and STV Player. This episode promises to offer viewers an intimate look at how genetic discoveries can reshape one's understanding of family and identity.
