Kudrow shakes family tree in new show

BURBANK, Calif., Jan. 27 (UPI) -- Lisa Kudrow, Sarah Jessica Parker and Susan Sarandon explore their family histories in the U.S. reality series "Who Do You Think You Are?" NBC said Tuesday.

The program, which former "Friends" star Kudrow also executive produces, is set to premiere April 20.

In conjunction with Kudrow's production company Is or Isn't Entertainment and the U.K.'s Wall to Wall productions, the new show is an adaptation of the hit, award-winning British television documentary series of the same name. NBC said "Who Do You Think You Are?" is intended to "lead celebrities on a journey of self-discovery as they unearth their family trees that reveal surprising, inspiring and even tragic stories that often are linked to crucial events in American history."

Additional celebrity names are expected to be announced shortly.

"No other program gives this unique glimpse into the personal lives of celebrities or takes viewers on a quantum leap through history in such an entertaining way," Paul Telegdy, executive vice president of alternative programming for NBC and Universal Media Studios, said in a statement. "We are thrilled to have Lisa, Susan and Sarah Jessica kick off this groundbreaking series."

"This show personalizes history and turns it into a gripping narrative," added Kudrow. "The most striking thing about the show is the realization of how connected we all are."