A US version of Who Do You Think You Are? has been ordered by NBC.

The show, a strong performer for the BBC, follows celebrities as they explore their family trees.

NBC's order is subject to an acceptable lineup of stars. UK producer Wall to Wall and its US partners are currently considering several unnamed contenders.

Wall to Wall chief executive Alex Graham, who created the show, said: "It's about people trying to figure out a sense of identity, and we've discovered it's an emotional journey.

"Everybody has a great story. When confronted by that great story, no matter how practised you are in front of the camera, it's very incredibly moving."

Craig Plestis, NBC's executive vice president of alternative programming, added: "It's great storytelling, a journey of self-discovery for these celebrities and truly moving and life-changing. You often see a very different side of them."