Actors Who Are Directly Related to Famous Historical Figures

Many of the most recognizable faces in Hollywood carry a secret history within their DNA that connects them to the figures who shaped the modern world. These genetic links often bridge the gap between contemporary entertainment and major historical milestones such as royal successions or the founding of nations. Discovering these connections can provide a new perspective on an actor’s public persona and their place in the cultural landscape. This list explores several prominent male actors who share direct ancestral ties with some of the most influential people in history.

Tom Hanks

Tom Hanks is a distant cousin of Abraham Lincoln through the mother of the sixteenth president Nancy Hanks. The actor has a genealogical link to the former president that dates back several generations in American history. He provided the voice for the president in the ‘Killing Lincoln’ television movie which further connected his professional work to his ancestry. This heritage places him among several Hollywood figures with ties to the early leaders of the United States. He remains one of the most respected performers in modern cinema with a legacy of his own.

Benedict Cumberbatch

Benedict Cumberbatch discovered he is a third cousin sixteen times removed of King Richard III. He eventually portrayed the monarch in the series titled ‘The Hollow Crown’ which aired on public television. Genealogy experts confirmed the connection through the maternal line of the royal family tree. The actor also participated in the reburial ceremony for the king after his remains were discovered in a parking lot. His career has often involved playing complex historical and literary figures.

Edward Norton

Edward Norton learned through a genealogy program that he is the twelfth great grandson of Pocahontas. The actor traced his lineage back to the marriage of the famous Native American woman and settler John Rolfe in the early seventeenth century. This direct connection surprised the performer who is known for his roles in ‘Fight Club’ and ‘American History X’. The historical evidence supports the long standing family legend that his ancestors were part of the founding of Virginia. He continues to be a prominent figure in the film industry as both an actor and director.

Robert Pattinson

Robert Pattinson is a distant relative of Vlad the Impaler who was the historical inspiration for the character of Dracula. Genealogists found that the actor is related to the Bram Stoker character namesake through the British Royal Family. This connection is quite fitting given his breakout role as a vampire in the ‘Twilight’ film franchise. The lineage links him to the House of Tudor and several other European noble lines. He has transitioned from teen idol to a critically acclaimed performer in independent cinema.

Kit Harington

Kit Harington is a descendant of John Harington who was a prominent figure in the court of Queen Elizabeth I and the inventor of the flushing toilet. The actor also has ties to Robert Catesby through his mother who was the mastermind behind the Gunpowder Plot. He portrayed his ancestor Robert Catesby in the historical drama series ‘Gunpowder’ which he also produced. These ancestral links have given him a deep appreciation for British history and heritage. He is most famous for his role in the fantasy series ‘Game of Thrones’.

Danny Dyer

Danny Dyer discovered he is a direct descendant of King Edward III during the filming of a genealogy show. The actor was stunned to learn that his family tree includes Thomas Cromwell and other significant British historical figures. This discovery changed his perspective on his own identity and his place in English history. He has since explored more of his royal heritage in a documentary series that followed his lineage back through the centuries. He is widely known for his role in the long running soap opera ‘EastEnders’.

George Clooney

George Clooney is the half first cousin five times removed of Abraham Lincoln. His lineage connects to the president through Lucy Hanks who was the maternal grandmother of the Great Emancipator. This relationship makes him a distant relative of one of the most influential figures in American politics. The actor has often been involved in political activism and historical filmmaking throughout his career. He is an Academy Award winner known for his work in ‘Syriana’ and ‘The Descendants’.

Ralph Fiennes

Ralph Fiennes is a distant cousin of King Charles III through his descent from King James II of Scotland. His family belongs to the British aristocracy with many ancestors who held significant titles and positions in government. The actor is well known for his portrayal of the villainous Lord Voldemort in the ‘Harry Potter’ series. His brother Joseph Fiennes is also a successful actor who has appeared in several historical dramas. Ralph continues to work in prestigious stage and film productions around the world.

Hugh Grant

Hugh Grant can trace his ancestry back to King Henry VII of England and King James IV of Scotland. His lineage also includes a number of military leaders and notable figures from British colonial history. The actor has often played wealthy or aristocratic characters in films such as ‘Sense and Sensibility’ and ‘Notting Hill’. His family tree is filled with individuals who helped shape the political landscape of the United Kingdom over several centuries. He remains a staple of the British film industry with a career spanning several decades.

Matt Damon

Matt Damon is a distant cousin of King Edward I of England which links him to several other prominent actors. Genealogists have mapped his family tree to show a connection to the royal lines of Europe from the Middle Ages. The actor rose to fame after winning an Academy Award for the screenplay of ‘Good Will Hunting’. He has since starred in major franchises including the ‘Jason Bourne’ series and ‘The Martian’. His ancestry reflects the deep historical roots of many families that settled in the New England area.

Brad Pitt

Brad Pitt is a descendant of King Henry II of England through his maternal line. This royal connection makes him a distant cousin of several other Hollywood actors including his former partner. The actor has appeared in many historically themed films such as ‘Troy’ and ‘Inglourious Basterds’. His lineage traces back to the early medieval period and includes various members of the European nobility. He is recognized as one of the most influential people in the entertainment industry today.

Ben Affleck

Ben Affleck is related to King Edward I of England through his American ancestors. This genealogical tie makes him a distant cousin of his long time friend and collaborator Matt Damon. The actor has won multiple Academy Awards for his work as both a writer and a producer. He has portrayed historical figures on screen and directed films like ‘Argo’ which won Best Picture. His family history is rooted in the early settlement of the United States.

Bill Hader

Bill Hader learned that he is a direct descendant of King Edward III of England and Charlemagne. The comedian and actor was surprised to find such prestigious roots during a television program about family history. He is best known for his work on ‘Saturday Night Live’ and the dark comedy series ‘Barry’. His ancestry connects him to the very foundation of European royalty and the Holy Roman Empire. This historical background adds an interesting layer to his public persona as a versatile performer.

Jake Gyllenhaal

Jake Gyllenhaal is a descendant of King Edward III of England through his father who comes from a noble Swedish family. The Gyllenhaal family has a long history of serving in the military and holding positions in the Swedish government. The actor has starred in a wide range of films including ‘Brokeback Mountain’ and ‘Nightcrawler’. His sister Maggie Gyllenhaal is also a prominent actor and director in the industry. He remains a highly sought after talent for complex and challenging film roles.

Clint Eastwood

Clint Eastwood is a distant cousin of King Henry I of England according to genealogical research. The legendary actor and director has a lineage that connects him to the early monarchs of Britain. He is famous for his work in Westerns like ‘The Good the Bad and the Ugly’ and his Oscar winning direction of ‘Unforgiven’. His long career has made him an icon of American cinema and a symbol of rugged masculinity. The actor has also been involved in local politics in California during his life.

Kevin Bacon

Kevin Bacon is related to King Edward I of England which makes him a distant cousin of many other famous people. This royal connection is ironic given the popular game that links every actor in Hollywood to him. He has appeared in a massive variety of films including ‘Footloose’ and ‘Mystic River’. His career spans several decades and encompasses film television and theater. He continues to be a prolific performer and a central figure in the entertainment world.

Johnny Depp

Johnny Depp is a distant cousin of the late Queen Elizabeth II as they both share an ancestor from several centuries ago. His family history includes a mix of European and Native American heritage that he has often spoken about in interviews. The actor is world famous for his portrayal of Captain Jack Sparrow in the ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ franchise. He has also starred in many films by director Tim Burton such as ‘Edward Scissorhands’. His ancestry reflects the diverse cultural landscape of the United States.

Christopher Lee

Christopher Lee was a descendant of the Holy Roman Emperor Charlemagne through the Carandini family of Italy. The actor had a long and distinguished career playing iconic villains such as Count Dracula and Saruman. He was knighted for his services to drama and charity in the United Kingdom. His family history also included connections to the military and high ranking government officials. He remains one of the most prolific and respected actors in the history of cinema.

Kiefer Sutherland

Kiefer Sutherland is the grandson of Tommy Douglas who was a famous Canadian politician and the founder of the national healthcare system. His grandfather was voted the Greatest Canadian of all time in a nationwide poll. The actor is best known for his role as Jack Bauer in the action series ’24’. He is also the son of the legendary actor Donald Sutherland who had a significant career in film. Kiefer has carried on the family legacy of performance and public presence.

Armie Hammer

Armie Hammer is the great grandson of Armand Hammer who was a prominent industrialist and philanthropist. His great grandfather was the head of Occidental Petroleum and had close ties to many world leaders. The actor has starred in films like ‘The Social Network’ and ‘Call Me by Your Name’. His family name is well known in the worlds of business and art collecting. He has faced various professional challenges but remains a recognizable figure in Hollywood.

Harry Lloyd

Harry Lloyd is the great great great grandson of the legendary Victorian author Charles Dickens. The actor has appeared in several adaptations of his ancestor work including a production of ‘Great Expectations’. He is also known for his role as Viserys Targaryen in the first season of ‘Game of Thrones’. His heritage connects him to one of the most important literary figures in the English language. He continues to work in film television and on the stage in London.

Alexander Armstrong

Alexander Armstrong is a descendant of William Armstrong who was a famous engineer and industrialist in Victorian England. His ancestor was responsible for many technological advancements and built the famous Cragside estate. The actor and comedian is well known as the host of the game show ‘Pointless’ and for his sketch comedy work. He has also released several albums as a singer and performed in various television dramas. His family history is deeply rooted in the industrial heritage of Northern England.

Damian Lewis

Damian Lewis is the grandson of Sir Ian Bowater who served as the Lord Mayor of London in the late 1960s. His maternal grandfather was a prominent figure in the City of London and the British establishment. The actor gained international fame for his roles in ‘Band of Brothers’ and the spy thriller ‘Homeland’. He has also played King Henry VIII in the television adaptation of ‘Wolf Hall’. His upbringing and education in elite British institutions reflect his family historical status.

Eddie Redmayne

Eddie Redmayne is a descendant of Richard Redmayne who was a prominent civil engineer and the first Chief Inspector of Mines. His family has a history of significant contributions to British industry and public service. The actor won an Academy Award for his portrayal of Stephen Hawking in ‘The Theory of Everything’. He is also known for his roles in the ‘Fantastic Beasts’ film series and ‘Les Misérables’. His ancestry includes many individuals who were influential during the industrial development of Britain.

Tom Hiddleston

Tom Hiddleston is the great grandson of Vice Admiral Sir Reginald Servaes who was a high ranking officer in the Royal Navy. His family history includes several prominent figures in the military and the medical profession. The actor is globally recognized for his portrayal of Loki in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. He has also appeared in numerous stage productions and critically acclaimed television series like ‘The Night Manager’. His ancestors played important roles in the defense and governance of the British Empire.

Daniel Day-Lewis

Daniel Day-Lewis is the son of Cecil Day-Lewis who was the Poet Laureate of the United Kingdom for several years. His father was a major literary figure of the twentieth century known for his poetry and detective novels. The actor is the only man to win three Academy Awards for Best Actor for his roles in ‘My Left Foot’ ‘There Will Be Blood’ and ‘Lincoln’. He is famous for his intense method acting and his selective approach to film roles. His family legacy is one of high artistic achievement and cultural significance.

John Lithgow

John Lithgow is a descendant of several passengers who arrived on the Mayflower in 1620 including William Brewster. His family has deep roots in early American history and the settlement of the New England colonies. The actor has had a distinguished career on stage and screen winning multiple Emmy and Tony Awards. He is known for his roles in ‘3rd Rock from the Sun’ and his portrayal of Winston Churchill in ‘The Crown’. His ancestry connects him to the very beginnings of European colonization in North America.

Richard Gere

Richard Gere is a descendant of several Mayflower passengers which links him to the earliest settlers of the United States. His family tree includes individuals who were central to the establishment of the Plymouth Colony. The actor became a major film star in the 1980s with roles in ‘American Gigolo’ and ‘An Officer and a Gentleman’. He is also known for his humanitarian work and his devotion to Tibetan Buddhism. His historical roots are typical of many families with long histories in the American Northeast.

Humphrey Bogart

Humphrey Bogart was a descendant of King Edward III of England through his maternal line which included many prominent Dutch and English settlers. His ancestors were among the first families to settle in New Amsterdam which later became New York City. The actor is an icon of the Golden Age of Hollywood with legendary performances in ‘Casablanca’ and ‘The Maltese Falcon’. He remains one of the most influential figures in film history and a symbol of classic cinema. His family was part of the American social elite for several generations.

Cary Elwes

Cary Elwes is the descendant of John Elwes who was a Member of Parliament and a famous miser in eighteenth century England. His ancestor was so well known for his extreme frugality that he is said to have inspired the character of Ebenezer Scrooge. The actor is best known for his lead role in the classic film ‘The Princess Bride’. He has appeared in a wide range of movies including ‘Glory’ and ‘Robin Hood Men in Tights’. His family history includes many notable figures in British politics and the arts.

Balthazar Getty

Balthazar Getty is the great grandson of Jean Paul Getty who was once the wealthiest man in the world. His great grandfather founded the Getty Oil Company and established the famous Getty Museum in Los Angeles. The actor has appeared in films like ‘Lost Highway’ and the television series ‘Brothers and Sisters’. His family name is synonymous with massive wealth and the history of the global oil industry. He has also worked as a musician and a producer throughout his career in entertainment.

Jack Huston

Jack Huston is the grandson of the legendary filmmaker John Huston and the great grandson of actor Walter Huston. His family is one of the most successful dynasties in Hollywood history with multiple generations winning Academy Awards. He is also a descendant of Robert Walpole who was the first Prime Minister of Great Britain. The actor is known for his role as Richard Harrow in the television series ‘Boardwalk Empire’. His heritage combines American cinematic royalty with British political history.

Jason Ritter

Jason Ritter is the son of John Ritter and the grandson of Tex Ritter who was a pioneer of country music and a singing cowboy in films. His grandfather was a major figure in the early days of American western entertainment and a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame. The actor has starred in television shows such as ‘Joan of Arcadia’ and ‘Parenthood’. He continues the family tradition of performing which stretches back to the golden era of radio and film. His family legacy is deeply embedded in the history of American popular culture.

Richard Briers

Richard Briers was a second cousin of the famous actor Sir John Terry who was part of the legendary Terry theatrical dynasty. His family had connections to some of the most important figures in the history of the British stage. The actor was a beloved figure in the United Kingdom known for his role in the sitcom ‘The Good Life’. He also worked extensively with Kenneth Branagh in several Shakespearean film adaptations. His career reflected a long standing commitment to the traditions of English acting.

Stephen Fry

Stephen Fry is a descendant of William Adlington who was the first person to translate the ancient novel ‘The Golden Ass’ into English. His ancestry also includes Jewish relatives from Central Europe who were affected by the major events of the twentieth century. The actor and writer is a prominent intellectual figure in Britain known for his comedy and documentaries. He has hosted the quiz show ‘QI’ and written several best selling books and plays. His family history is a mix of academic achievement and historical struggle.

David Arquette

David Arquette is a descendant of the explorer Meriwether Lewis who led the Lewis and Clark Expedition across the American West. His family has a long history in the entertainment industry starting with his father Cliff Arquette. The actor is known for his roles in the ‘Scream’ horror franchise and his involvement in professional wrestling. His lineage connects him to one of the most significant periods of American territorial expansion. He remains active in Hollywood as an actor producer and director.

Bill Paxton

Bill Paxton was a distant relative of Sam Houston who was a key leader in the Texas Revolution and the first president of the Republic of Texas. The actor had deep roots in the state of Texas and often played characters with strong ties to the region. He is famous for his roles in ‘Aliens’ ‘Twister’ and the television series ‘Big Love’. His career spanned several decades and made him a favorite of many acclaimed directors. His family connection to Texas history was a source of great personal pride.

Richard Armitage

Richard Armitage was named after King Richard III because he was born on the anniversary of the Battle of Bosworth Field. Genealogists later discovered that he shares a distant biological link with the monarch he was named after. The actor is well known for his portrayal of Thorin Oakenshield in ‘The Hobbit’ film trilogy. He has also starred in numerous television dramas such as ‘North and South’ and ‘Hannibal’. His name and ancestry have created a unique connection to one of the most controversial figures in English history.

Patrick Stewart

Patrick Stewart discovered that his ancestors were involved in the military during various conflicts in British history. His research into his family tree revealed stories of service and struggle that mirrored the history of the working class in Northern England. The actor is legendary for his roles as Captain Jean Luc Picard in ‘Star Trek Next Generation’ and Professor Charles Xavier in the ‘X-Men’ films. He has also had a long and prestigious career with the Royal Shakespeare Company. His family background has influenced his advocacy for domestic violence awareness and veterans issues.

Michael Douglas

Michael Douglas is the son of Kirk Douglas who was one of the most famous stars of the Golden Age of Hollywood. His father was the son of immigrants and became a symbol of the American dream through his success in films like ‘Spartacus’. Michael has won Academy Awards as both an actor and a producer for films like ‘Wall Street’ and ‘One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest’. His family is a central part of the historical narrative of the American film industry. He continues to be a major force in entertainment and global philanthropy.

Tell us which of these ancestral connections surprised you the most in the comments.