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Amanda Holden couldn't hold back the tears during Wednesday's DNA Journey, when she learned she shared something significant with a distant relative.
The Britain's Got Talent judge, 50, is an ambassador for Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, and makes no secret of her love for animals.
When she learned her ancestor was the first chief executive in the charity many years ago, the ITV star was moved to tears.
Holding her fans in her hands, Amanda's pal Alan Carr put his arm around her in support as he listened in amazement, thrilled by the family connection.
One of the executives at the home shared the news, saying: "We’ve got something really quite interesting to tell you about an ancestor of yours, Thomas, who had a real connection with Battersea.
He then revealed her ancestor Thomas was appointed Battersea’s first chief executive way back in 1877, making history in the charitable organisation.
Amanda responded with an expression of shock, as she exclaimed: "No he b****y was not! Oh my God! Are you kidding?"
"Im not kidding," he replied, adding: "The first manager of the home who professionalised the whole operation."
With tears welling up in her eyes, Amanda was forced to turn away from the camera for a moment to let the news sink in.
She said: "I can’t believe it. That is just amazing. I can’t believe that. And I am a part of it here now."
"Battersea is literally in your genes," the home's executive added.
Watching from home, viewers were equally stunned by the spooky coincidence, as they realised a love of animals must run in the family.
One Twitter user said: "Goosebumps."
"Me and Mum are sitting here in shock at that link!!!," wrote a second, and a third chimed: "Amandas link to @Battersea_ is fantastic. I'm feel moved for her. That's an amazing discovery."
"Wow to me it feels like your ancestors guide you through life! Fascinating!!" agreed a fourth.
Having worked with the charity for years, Amanda has been campaigning for Battersbea throughout the lockdown, urging the public to give a cat or a dog a loving home.
In May of last year, she said: "I'm not sure what our family would have done without our rescue pets while we've been in lockdown.
"They cheer us up every day, they give us a routine to focus on when we’re feeling overwhelmed."
DNA Journey continues next Wednesday at 9pm on ITV.
- Amanda Holden
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