Edward Norton learns that his 12th great-grandmother is real-life Pocahontas

Edward Norton learned more about his ancestry in the season premiere of "Finding Your Roots," and that includes the interesting fact that his 12th great-grandmother is the real-life Pocahontas.

According to host Henry Louis Gates Jr., Norton's roots can be traced back to the earliest days of colonial America in Virginia when Pocahontas married English settler John Rolfe in 1614.

The actor said on the program that he grew up hearing stories from his family that he and Pocahontas were related, but only thought of it as family lore.

Gates said that Norton has "a direct paper trail—no doubt about it—connection to your 12th great-grandmother and great-grandfather John Rolfe and Pocahontas."

As reported by People, the show also revealed that Norton is related to a Civil War soldier who wrote to Abraham Lincoln, a pro-union labor union activist from the late 19th century, a member of the Continental Army under George Washington, and a third great-grandfather who owned enslaved people.

The Academy Award nominee said on the show that learning about his ancestors "makes you realize what a small piece of the whole human story you are."

Norton starred in "Moonrise Kingdom," "Bourne Legacy," "The Grand Budapest Hotel," "Birdman," and "Fight Club," among others.

—Nika Roque/MGP, GMA Integrated News

Through a direct paper trail leading to Pocahontas and John Rolfes’ 1614 marriage certificate, @EdwardNorton learns that his family lore appears to be true. His 12th great-grandmother is Pocohantas!

Tune in TOMORROW night on @PBS at 8/7c for the Finding Your Roots premiere!! pic.twitter.com/54sTTt2YKY

— Henry Louis Gates Jr (@HenryLouisGates) January 2, 2023