Playwright Tracy Letts delves into the connection between his familial background and his theatrical work in an exclusive clip from the PBS series “Finding Your Roots.” In an upcoming episode, the Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright reflects on how his family dynamics influence his creations, especially noted in works like “August: Osage County.”
Letts shares a poignant moment when a family member attended a production of his famous play and recognized echoes of his own childhood experiences on stage. Despite the painful memories it evoked, this relative found humor and representation in the portrayal, laughing heartily during the performance. “He roared with laughter in the theater. He liked seeing himself represented,” Letts remarked, highlighting the therapeutic power of art.
The episode featuring Letts, alongside co-host Sara Haines, is set to premiere on Tuesday, February 10th, 2026, at 8/7c on PBS.
A celebrated playwright, Letts is renowned for his works, including “August: Osage County” and “The Minutes,” and has appeared in notable films and television shows such as “Homeland,” “Lady Bird,” “Ford v. Ferrari,” and “Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers.” His theatrical talents earned him a Tony Award in 2013 for his performance in the Broadway revival of “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?”
Currently, Letts’ play “Bug” is being showcased on Broadway at the Samuel J. Friedman Theatre. Initially run until February 8, the production’s success has prompted an extension, now scheduled to continue through March 8.
The 12th season of “Finding Your Roots with Henry Louis Gates, Jr.” features Letts among 19 other prominent guests who join Gates to explore their ancestral histories and family trees. This season also includes appearances from notable figures, including Darren Criss, Kristin Chenoweth, and Spike Lee, adding to the rich tapestry of stories shared on the show.
This exploration not only celebrates personal history but showcases the importance of representation and shared experiences in art, illustrating how personal narratives resonate universally, providing solace and understanding to audiences.