'Finding Your Roots' takes a look at Wes Studi's past, gets answers

Jan. 16—Wes Studi has been on a journey of discovery his whole life.

The New Mexico resident has built himself a career in film, as well as being an advocate for Native American representation.

Yet, there was something missing and he wanted answers.

Studi will appear on the PBS series, "Finding Your Roots," at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 16, on New Mexico PBS, channel 5.1. The episode will also be available to stream on the PBS app.

Studi appears in the episode, "Fathers and Sons," along with LeVar Burton.

The series is hosted by Henry Louis Gates Jr.

Gates says the episode is about two men whose lives were shaped by their absent fathers.

"I was teased about that," Studio says in the episode of not having a father. "I would say things like, 'I don't have a dad.' Kids would say 'Ewww.' "

Gates uses genealogical detective work and cutting-edge DNA analysis to guide 21 influential guests through the branches of their family trees during the new 10 episodes.

"I am deeply proud of this series — and especially this season. I think it is so important today to show what we have in common, as Americans, and as human beings, despite our apparent differences. The stories we find in our guests' family trees demonstrate — repeatedly — that we are a fundamentally blended nation that draws strength from our diversity."

In the episode, Studi takes a trip through his past and finds answers to many of his questions.

"I feel on the verge of discovery," Studi says in the episode. "In a way I'm dumbfounded. I asked the question. I got the answer and now I'm dumbfounded."

Studi and Burton are one of a dozen that appear on the 10th season of the series.

"The tenth season of 'Finding Your Roots' is not only a milestone for the show," Gates says. "It signifies the bond we share with PBS and our viewers to tell stories that explore the fullness and diversity of humanity through the personal tales of our guests and their ancestors. The family trees we unearth this season are especially fascinating and full of lessons and surprises from one generation to the next. It is an enormous privilege for all of us who work on the show to bring it to public television. After all these years, I continue to be amazed by the discoveries we make that in various ways illuminate how connected we truly are."