David Walliams explores his great-grandfather's involvement in World War I! | #WDYTYA

Actor, comedian, talent show judge and children’s author David Walliams delves into his family history. First, he learns of his paternal great-grandfather’s prolonged and traumatic experiences on the battlefields of the First World War. The damage to his mental health condemned him to a lifetime in what was then known as a lunatic asylum. On his mother’s side, David uncovers the story of his great-great-grandfather, who was blind as the result of invasive eye surgery. David is amazed to find out that his ancestor became an entertainer - first a street musician and then a travelling showman, running fairground attractions with the help of his wife and children.

In each episode, one of Britain's best-loved celebrities traces their family tree to reveal the surprising, extraordinary and often moving stories of their ancestors. We publish new videos twice a week with the most memorable moments from the show. Subscribe now and click on the bell 🔔 to get notifications every time we upload a new video!

[maudeboggins]

Just as a point of reference, Charles De Gaulle was born in 1894 & was 6ft 4" when he served his country in WW1. So he was massive in comparison to 5ft 9". I take my hat off to all men who served their countries during that horrid war. RIP all of them.

[sblack]

How many 10s of 1000s men does this story describe? A generation decimated either killed or mentally and physically destroyed. JRR Tolkien, who was in WW1, said that after the war all his friends were dead. Hard to imagine what that does to a person.

[carollollol]

I recently saw 1917 and I feel so sorry for anyone who went through that.

[thehowlingmisogynist]

My Grand Uncle was killed at Festubert.

[Marcel_Audubon]

"do you like me, daddy?" the boy didn't write that, his mother did.