Melissa Doyle Discovers Surprising Family Secrets on SBS TV Show

Melissa Doyle, the well-known Aussie journalist and former Sunrise host, has recently delved into her family’s intriguing history on the SBS TV program ‘Who Do You Think You Are?’

In this captivating episode which aired on Tuesday night, Doyle uncovered surprising family secrets that traced her lineage back to New Zealand.

During her appearance on Sunrise the following morning, Melissa shared the fascinating revelation that her great-grandmother Annie was not only an entrepreneur who began a confectionary shop but also dabbled in bootlegging booze, selling ‘medicated health wine’ with high alcohol content to rail workers.

As Doyle expressed her amusement and admiration for Annie’s bootlegging endeavors, she also mentioned feeling a sense of hesitation and nervousness about uncovering potentially scandalous family history.

The investigative journey into her ancestry further revealed that Annie’s father had a criminal history, having served time in jail, adding more layers to the family’s past.

Learning about her ancestors being granted land during the time of the Maori wars left Doyle with a sense of shock as she realized the implications of displacement that would have occurred.

Reflecting on the experience, Melissa shared her appreciation for the opportunity to connect with her family’s past, bringing to life the names and dates on a family tree by understanding the experiences and challenges they faced.