In a recent episode of PBS’s Finding Your Roots, veteran actor Michael Douglas received a jaw-dropping revelation about his ancestry. The show, known for unravelling intriguing familial connections, disclosed that Douglas, aged 79, shares a surprising genetic bond with none other than Hollywood actress Scarlett Johansson, aged 39.
A Star-Studded Surprise
The episode, which also featured Lena Dunham’s familial discoveries, left viewers astonished, especially fans of Douglas and Johansson who were unaware of this familial link.
Michael Douglas’s Astonishment
During the episode, host Henry Louis Gates Jr. disclosed that Douglas and Johansson ‘share identical branches of DNA on four different chromosomes,’ connecting them as distant cousins. Reacting to this revelation, Douglas exclaimed, “Are you kidding me?” expressing his genuine surprise and disbelief. He further added, “Oh, that’s amazing. All right. This is cool. This is so cool.”
Common Roots and On-Screen Collaboration
Gates unveiled that the shared DNA links back to Scarlett’s maternal lines, tracing back to Jewish communities in Eastern Europe. Douglas, still in awe, eagerly expressed his anticipation of meeting Scarlett in the future.
Not only do Douglas and Johansson share a genetic connection, but they also belong to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) family. The actors collaborated on-screen in the blockbuster hit Avengers: Endgame, where Douglas portrayed Hank Pym from the Ant-Man series, and Johansson played Natasha Romanoff, famously known as Black Widow.
Revelations Beyond Genetics
Aside from the surprising DNA connection, Finding Your Roots also sheds light on some of Douglas’s ancestors’ challenging journey to America, with some encountering legal issues upon their arrival. This revelation contradicted some of the information previously known to Douglas, leaving him visibly shocked.
A Journey Filled with Surprises
The episode was a rollercoaster of unexpected revelations and historical insights, making it a must-watch for fans of genealogy and Hollywood’s finest. The unlikely connection between Michael Douglas and Scarlett Johansson serves as a reminder of the intricate tapestry of human connections, transcending time and borders.