For Jewish families, tracing their roots isn’t just a hobby—it’s a way of reconnecting with history, reclaiming lost stories and understanding where they come from. Now, a new television series is taking that journey to the screen.
On March 3, Jewish Life Television will premiere “Generations,” the first-ever Jewish genealogy TV series, produced in collaboration with the Museum of Jewish Heritage and JewishGen, an online resource with more than 30 million Jewish genealogical records. The debut episode follows Emmy-winning actress Camryn Manheim, known for “Law & Order” and “The Practice,” and her son, Milo Manheim of “Zombies” and “School Spirits,” as they uncover their Jewish ancestry through DNA testing, historical records, and heirlooms.
“For me, learning about my ancestors and my Jewish heritage holds immense significance,” Camryn Manheim said. “It allows me to connect with my roots, understand the rich history of my family, and appreciate the unimaginable struggles and triumphs that have shaped my life today.”
The series, hosted by Brad Pomerance, goes beyond standard genealogy research. Using JewishGen’s extensive digital archives, the Museum of Jewish Heritage’s historical collections it will explore Jewish family histories, some dating back centuries.
Uncovering the past, shaping the future
For Jewish families, genealogy presents unique challenges. Name changes, immigration records and lost documents—often due to persecution and displacement—can make piecing together a family tree difficult. “Generations” aims to bridge those gaps, offering deeply personal, historically rich narratives.
“This show is about more than just tracing names on a family tree,” Pomerance said. “It’s about understanding the journeys our ancestors took, the obstacles they overcame and how those experiences shape us today.”
Future episodes will feature other well-known Jewish figures exploring their own family legacies with guidance from genealogists and historians.
St. Louis’ own Jewish genealogy treasure trove
For St. Louisans inspired by “Generations,” there’s no need to wait for a TV crew to start digging into their own Jewish ancestry. The Jewish Special Interest Group of the St. Louis Genealogical Society provides expert support, quarterly meetings, and access to vital resources for local research.
J-SIG, co-led by Ilene Murray, helps individuals navigate historical records, debunk genealogy myths, and find lost family connections. Their meetings, which are open to the public, include expert talks and workshops on researching Jewish heritage.
The Emerson History & Genealogy Center at the St. Louis County Library also offers one of the most extensive collections of Jewish genealogical resources in the Midwest. Whether you’re just starting or stuck on a family mystery, these local institutions provide hands-on support.
The premiere of “Generations” airs March 3 at 8 p.m. on JLTV. To learn more, visit JLTV’s website.
