Patty Duke’s Son Finally Knows His Father After DNA Testing

He's a former child star, a hobbit hero, and a Stranger Things fan favorite. He is Sean Astin, one of the most beloved and versatile actors of his generation. But behind his dazzling career and happy family life, there was a secret that haunted him for years: the identity of his biological father.
▬Contents of this video▬
00:00 - Intro
01:03 - A Giant Question Mark
02:16 - The I Love Lucy Connection
03:41 - Tell It To Me Straight
05:41 - Sean's Happily Ever After
08:07 - Outro
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Sean Astin grew up believing that John Astin, the actor who played Gomez Addams in The Addams Family, was his dad. John Astin had adopted Sean and raised him as his own son, after marrying his mother Patty Duke, an Oscar-winning actress and mental health advocate. But when Sean was 14, Patty Duke dropped a bombshell: John Astin was not his father. Instead, she claimed that Desi Arnaz Jr., the son of TV legends Desi Arnaz and Lucille Ball, was his real dad.
Sean Astin had to adjust to a new reality, but he also found a silver lining. He developed a strong bond with Desi Arnaz Jr., who became like a godfather to him. He also kept his relationship with John Astin, who loved him as his own son. It seemed like everything was finally all cleared up. But there was more to the story...
When Sean Astin was in his 20s, he met a relative of Michael Tell's who claimed that he might be his real father. Michael Tell was a rock promoter and writer whom Patty Duke had married briefly in 1970, in a bizarre and impulsive scheme to escape public scrutiny. They never consummated their union... or did they?
Sean Astin decided to take a DNA test to find out the truth once and for all. He asked John Astin, Desi Arnaz Jr., and Michael Tell to participate. The results were shocking and surprising, but if you want to know what they determined, you'll have to watch this video to find out.
How did Sean Astin react to this revelation? How did Patty Duke feel about it? How did Sean Astin maintain his relationships with all three men? And how did this mystery affect his life and career? Watch this video to find out the amazing story of Sean Astin's quest for his father's identity.
Patty Duke’s Son Finally Knows His Father After DNA Testing

[@FactsVerse]

Did you know that Patty Duke suffered during her final days? Find out more here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mJjJY4GDl7tqpMU

[@donnamorgan-jt5ts]

As someone who’s Bi-Polar I’ve always admired Patty’s openness immensely about hers. Patty was advocating for understanding long before it was “trendy” to do so. Patty was a lady with immense courage in a time it wasn’t accepted with great compassion.

[@joycebruhn3672]

Patty duke the most awsome woman

[@ckotcher1]

That’s kind of morbid. But thanks Facts Verse I’m good.

[@Questor-ky2fv]

He did a great job in the Tolkien movies. I always liked Samwise in the books, and Sean did a good job bringing the character to life onscreen.🤗 I'm sorry his mother is gone. I liked her too.

[@marthapushpin]

@@ckotcher1 I agree. Creepy, in fact.

[@maryoleary2037]

It speaks well of Sean's character and personality that he is close to all three men, who potentially could have been his father. The fact that all three are happy to have Sean in their lives. tells us that Sean is a man of substance and integrity.

[@christinebaker7311]

Reminds me of Mama Mia.

[@FactsVerse]

We absolutely agree! Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts. Be safe and have a great day!

[@Qui7422]

Says a lot about the men as well

[@annika_panicka]

Very well said!

[@lindadowdy]

Lol Lol Lol no

[@cshell64]

I was once an extra in a movie with Sean, even though he was the main actor, he was so down to earth and treated everyone on set with so much kindness and respect. I got to talk to him personally for a couple of minutes, Sean is truly a wonderful human being!

[@VintageRose75]

That is wonderful to hear!! Which movie was it? 😀

[@LaurenBarcelona]

Wonderful testament to say.

[@keepitforreally4501]

How can one get a Part as an extra in a movie?

[@pattyoneill6724]

That is how actors should be and not let the fame and money change them. They are humans and not God's. He is a nice guy and hope it was her influence. Too much bed hopping is disgusting to me. No moral character and hurting others.

[@pattyoneill6724]

​@@keepitforreally4501 They had one in Princeton and was for a movie called IQ. Sometimes is in the paper announcing the need for extras.

[@katiem7850]

I met Patty several times when she shopped at the Macy’s where I worked. She was incredibly gracious and kind. When I told the younger girls I worked with that they were in the presence of a true Hollywood legend, she smiled and told them that she was known more as Sean Astin’s mother and that she was so proud of that.

[@FactsVerse]

Thank you so much for sharing your life story. We're very happy to know that she is gracious and kind! Be safe and have a great day ahead ♥

[@c.9231]

Aww...that's sweet.

[@brianarbenz1329]

Did her cousin Cathy ever stop by? (Just kiddin, that's a nice story.)

[@jhingbangayan762]

❤❤❤... Both her kids are very talented like herself💕

[@polandohio4969]

O

[@sugarcookiecube]

Sean is a thoroughly decent man. He took a chaotic beginning regarding his paternity through no fault of his own and acted with dignity.

[@laneneal3510]

Also living with bi-polar mother. It’s not easy

[@suzukibn1131]

Amen!

[@earthling148]

I met Patty Duke in a lobby of an Atlantic City about 60 years ago. She agreed to meet about 5 little fans and she hung out and answered questions for about 20 minutes. I have no idea where my autographed post card is but my impression of her was amazing ! And Sean most definitely, from what I can see, has inherited the best of the best !

[@kathydoebling2271]

I'm so happy to learn he finally learned who his biological father is but most importantly that he had 3 very exceptional and wonderful men who were willing to step in as role models and give him the fatherly love and guidance all young boys/men need. Thank you to all who were involved.

[@Godwinpounds4333]

Hello how're you doing?

[@lsk949]

This is old news.

[@colorbugoriginals4457]

@@lsk949 ok...boomer? 🙃

[@Wendy-ov5hu]

Mama Mia !

[@teresawhite4769]

@@colorbugoriginals4457millennial or gen z? Both seem to think they know everything.

[@conniemartin9362]

Wow! Some kids grow up never knowing their Dad, He had 3 Dads! And it seems they are ALL amazing Dads! ❤

[@FactsVerse]

Well said, we strongly concur! Thank you for watching our content and for sharing your thoughts. What other types of video would you like to see?

[@SkittlesGirl65]

Must be the character of the men patty duke fell in love with.

[@jennifer_m.8613]

Sort of a twist on the plot of Mamma Mia

[@raquelb731]

It’s awesome that so many people cared for this little guy ❤ that’s a beautiful thing. And yes! He looks like his father!❤

[@FactsVerse]

Well said, we strongly concur! Thank you for watching our content and for sharing your thoughts. Which of Sean's roles appealed to you the most?

[@suzukibn1131]

Which one

[@susangortva7939]

@@suzukibn1131 michael tell

[@shurst1806]

A true father sometimes isn't always a blood relative, looks like Sean was loved by more than one father......exceptionally loved and a lucky young man in the end!💕

[@Blurb777]

I had a mother who hated me, but I had a father who loved me and taught me the meaning of respect and dignity. To him I owe my success as a parent. God bless Sean. We all love him. An outstanding man!

[@humaneleaguelancPA]

So sorry for what you went through, I hope you have gone through some healing.

[@Blurb777]

​@@humaneleaguelancPA You are so very kind. Thank you:) Yes, I have completely healed. While my mother tried to kill me multiple times, bullied me to commit suicide, tore up my homework and burned my textbooks so I would not pass my exams, lied about me to random strangers, accused me of evil things I never even knew existed - I overcome her by forgiving her, even though I am now permanently disabled because of her. Grant it, there was a time in my teens when I would have rather chewed glass than forgive her - but that would mean that I would be just as ugly as she and be that way to my children if ever I had any. So, I had to forgive her. Otherwise, I would have carried her with me wherever I went. Christ tells us that if we don't forgive our enemies, or those who sinned against us, then God cannot forgive us our sins against Him. Forgiveness is the beginning of mental and spiritual health and puts us on a strong / fearless foundation. It also eliminates violent behavior. So, I forgave - and a sweeping sanity came over me. It was a work in progress, to be sure, but through the years I conquered not so much my anger at her, but my fear of her and every woman her age. I used to stutter when I heard her footsteps in another room. Now she stutters when I enter because she knows she no longer has power over me. Nor do I hate her because that would have been a concession to her. Love overrides hate and frees us. Cautious - absolutely. Holding her off at arm’s length - definitely. Letting her have free reign around my children? Never! My motto became, “Don’t be afraid of evil. Make evil afraid of you. Greater is He - God - who is in you, than he that is in the world.” To my father I owe a great debt. His job necessitated his absence during the week- but he was the one who cooked our breakfast before heading out and cooked our meals on the weekend. He was more maternal than my mom. He had to be.. He was kind, warm, respectful, intelligent, loved us, looked at all of us with wonder that God blessed him so much by giving us to him. He would have left our mom because she tried to hurt him, too, multiple times, but he would not leave us to her (the courts back then almost always gave the kids to the mother, and though my teacher had reported the abuse -- the police did nothing). While my mother never touched me except when she wanted to whip me or set me on fire, my father would hug us and ask us what we wanted to eat on the weekend. He tried his best to protect us from her. To him I owe everything. And my children, instead of running away from me when they see me like I did with my mom, they run toward me with outstretched arms every time I return from work to pick them up. Forgiveness paved the open path for love. It's how I won. The buck stops here.

[@pugnacious1]

​@@Blurb777 It's amazing you came through. But not at all surprised your faith got you through. The forgiveness of Christ helped you to forgive her. She sounds genuinely mentally ill. It's also possible she had a severe case of post partum depression- often directed at the child- that was never treated. It's awful. Just glad your father was there to help you especially to find the strength of character to forgive-- the hardest thing to do is forgive, but keeps you trapped in anger- that's no way to live! God bless!!

[@Blurb777]

@@pugnacious1 Thank you. We can overcome all things through Christ, because Christ overcame all things for us. Have a Blessed, enriching Resurrection Sunday. Because He lives, we shall live also :):)

[@humaneleaguelancPA]

@@Blurb777 God bless your Father and the Angels who watched over you!

[@leesashriber5097]

As someone who is adopted, I think It's wonderful he has so much love around him. Thank you my friend 😊

[@marlaknaack4641]

What a surprise. I don’t remember Michael Tell at all! I always assumed Desi Arnaz Jr was his bio dad. What a tangled time that was. God bless John Astin for being such a good dad to him. 🥰

[@margaretwallace1578]

I don’t think they were married that long and the marriage was annulled

[@FactsVerse]

Thanks for watching! We're glad to know that you love our video. If we may ask, what other types of video would you like to see on our channel

[@CharGC123]

Even without a DNA test their resemblance gave it away! As they say, any guy can make a baby but it takes someone special to be a dad. Lucky Sean had a few!

[@lemurianchick]

@@CharGC123LOL. 🥴

[@mangot589]

I still think he’s desi’s. I remember when her and he were going out, Sean being born, Lucy going to the hospital🤷‍♀️. They look a lot alike when they were babies, the still look alike. I have no idea why they would lie, though, unless it’s none of our business and it’s a cover to prevent all the bruh haha you KNOW would happen? She insisted Desi was the father.

[@bettrho2490]

Sean is an amazing talent as was his mother... met him once through his philanthropic work promoting reading. He was very kind and gracious and I wish him the best.

[@frederickcombs8661]

Lots of people cared, including 2 outstanding men, and a guy that passed through Patty Duke's life briefly. I knew who my father was, but he never cared and I live with it every day.

[@Imissyoulou]

My biological mother never cared about me and I did not give a f. I had a mother, that loved me very much and I felt the same about her. However, that is just me.

[@lilybond6485]

@frederickcombs8661: Hey, I’m so sorry. Hopefully you’ve had a father figure in your life - and I’m sure - hopefully - that there are people who love and care about you.

[@tamijeffcoat5462]

I wish a world of love for you. There is love around every corner. Go get some and give some. ❤

[@Gorgeouscorliss]

I’m sorry for that and he really missed out.

[@hollylebed9719]

I’m so sorry.

[@lvuittonlvr8698]

I always loved Patty Duke! She was a natural at acting. I'm so glad for her son that now he knows who his father is.

[@SlimKeith11]

She was a decent actress but a heinous Mother and human being. Having a mental illness doesn't give one permission to act like a complete spoiled brat, entitled/asshole.

[@Jesus.Fuckery]

*You Had 2-RePLies!!!! Both are MiZZing!!!!!*

[@Everettel]

Sean is a nice guy to stand by the guys who loved him even though they weren't his Dad.

[@FactsVerse]

Well said, we strongly concur! Thank you for watching our content and for sharing your thoughts. What other types of video would you like to see?

[@pamcornelius9122]

And vice versa.

[@mtp4430]

Everettel He sure is. My stepsons Dad took a hike when they were quite young. When I married their mother they were 9 and 12 yrs old. I raised them to manhood. Then their Dad magically reappeared after all the hard work and financial sacrifice was done on my part. Long story short, their Dad feels it’s disrespectful for them to carry on a relationship with me now that he’s back because after all he he’s their blood. Instead of telling this deadbeat that I was there for them when he wasn’t and they’re not going to do that. They did exactly as he requested and now I’m the odd man out. Their mother told me forget about it because I did the right thing and I just have to understand that it’s a Greek thing. Being ungrateful, disrespectful, and turning their backs on someone who had theirs all those years, is not a Greek thing, it’s an inexcusably ungrateful thing.

[@eh1702]

Oddly enough, you’re in a similar position to a lot of abandoned wives. Often it is the absent or even abusive parent that a child feels loyal to. And of course the newcomer is more exotic/ interesting and oftentimes their financial “freedom” has left them better off. And they may have had adventures that the responsible parent didn’t. As your sons mature, and as they get to know their biological father with a more adult eye, they will probably question more. And especially once they have kids themselves, they might start wondering how you can just abandon responsibility for a wee tot. I hope you will hold on, and forgive. You might have a chance to sit grandchildren on your knee, an altogether less complicated relationship.

[@mtp4430]

@@eh1702 I'm not holding a grudge so there's nothing to forgive. I just don't understand how my wife could be that loyal to some scum who abused her and then abandoned her and her children. She raised them to be loyal to him even though we had no idea where he even was. And I already have step-grandchildren that I'm not permitted to see because they have their biological grandfather now. And forget about maturing as they get older because they're already 36 and 33 now. They're grown man and should know better than to ostracize someone who took care of all their needs for all those years just because the Greek King came back. Besides, for the love of God could somebody please tell me what is so great about being Greek? They give their loyalty to this loser just because he's Greek and he's blood. Where was his blood when the kids needed to be clothed and fed? It's their loss. I just wish I knew all of this before I blew through my entire life savings supporting those losers. But hey, Karma isn't pretty and what goes around comes around.

[@aldawnadee357]

I was just at a speaking event with Sean Astin as the attraction. He is such a delightful, balanced, humble, sweet man. He is using his past to promote mental health awareness and is a very engaging speaker. With all he has been through, he is such an example of being an overcomer! :)

[@larauch13]

To have 3 fathers who love and care for him is very special.

[@FactsVerse]

Absolutely, we feel the same way! Thank you for sharing your sentiments and for watching our content. What other types of video would you like to see on our channel?

[@donnamorgan-jt5ts]

Absolutely right! They all invested in the well balanced,success he has turned out to be. A genuine credit to Patty & her partners for it being a huge positive result.

[@kenyonbissett3512]

Most of us wish we had just one father who loved us. To have 3 is a huge blessing.

[@luv2bevl1]

Totally true, 3 men being there is absolutely amazing.

[@patriciaschuren2834]

Some people give anything for one Dad that cared. Lucky guy.

[@thatgirl626]

I have lived my entire life not knowing who my father was ,I’m so happy for him.

[@mnmdisney]

I have a unknown brother 😢 I know your heartache 🩵🩵🩵🩵

[@FactsVerse]

Thank you so much for sharing your life story. Who did you spend your life with, your mom?

[@thatgirl626]

@@FactsVerse very abusive , left home at 15 she never excepted me I do not know her problem why she must have hated the guy

[@thatgirl626]

@@mnmdisney I’m sorry I know it never goes away the where are you now

[@dina113east]

Have you considered a DNA test? It will connect you with family members of your Father (most likely someone in his family has submitted an Ancestry test} and you can do your own research with the family names. Think about it. Best Wishes.

[@rnedlo9909]

My children's mother had mental issues and she put them through so much trauma. It's good to see he had support and ended up not passing on that trauma to his children.

[@FactsVerse]

Thank you so much for sharing your life story! How did you manage your wife?

[@rnedlo9909]

@@FactsVerse Not very well. She was very attractive, very clever and she convinced about everyone, even my family, that I was the bad guy. It is unimaginably hard for a woman who has a husband with mental issues, but a man who is trying to do what is best for his family with a wife who has mental issues is also in a no-win situation. It seemed half of the people who knew us before her mental illness blamed me for it; the other half thought I was not controlling her and if I just stopped her from doing what she was doing everything would be okay. Everybody agreed she was crazy, but no one backed me up when I needed it. The school, the church, friends and family either turned on me or blamed me or just threw their hands up and would have nothing to do with us anymore. That was 40+ years ago, hopefully we can have more open dialog about mental illness and certainly more support for the real victims, the family and friends of those suffering from mental illness.

[@darlenemitchell5402]

❤

[@SlimKeith11]

Patty was a disgrace. I hope you've had support.

[@rnedlo9909]

@@SlimKeith11 The thing is, she was this wonderful person until in her later 20's, she descended into what she turned out to be. It was horrible to watch the Dr. Jeckel/Mr Hyde syndrome occur. I never felt like she was to blame, she could not help what happened to her, it was hereditary, her mother and grandmother before he had the same condition. What was so disappointing was the lack of any support from simply everyone around me. It was so bad that, after the children were grown, I left the area and will never go there again or have anything to do with anyone from that time. It is not like I hold a grudge, just the memories are too painful to deal with. If you know someone who's partner shows signs of mental illness, give support to their partner and family, please. It was indescribably isolating to be the stable parent, protect the children and still provide for the family with a partner that was doing everything to destroy both the children and partner. Somehow, I survived and am in a good place, but not unscathed. I was never able to have a close relationship with a woman again, the trust was just never there. But, the children are doing better than I could have imagined back then and have pretty much put the past behind them, I'm very proud of them.

[@loretta6971]

Patty did an outstanding job of raising her sons. They are great men and great actors!

[@Godwinpounds4333]

Hello 👋 how are you doing?

[@d.r.3362]

​@@Godwinpounds4333 Seriously dude, quit trolling.

[@Jesus.Fuckery]

*2-TriLLion GaLaxies in UniVerse!!!!???? (by Thoughty2)* *I have a Hard Time to BeLieve that!!!!* *Me??? I am Going with a One BiLLion GaLaxies!!!!*

[@nemass26]

I'm glad they all loved him and accepted him. I'm also glad he found his real biological father as well

[@TheGaloof]

I always thought Sean deserved the Oscar for his work. Phenomenal actor. No one else could have become Samwise the way he did. Perfect casting!

[@deirdreyearwood3383]

Patty Duke was an amazing actress and has left behind a wonderful body of work. May her soul rest in peace. Sean is a wonderful actor too and has had a stable life with his wife and daughters. May they remain happy. He is lucky to have had three Dads.

[@larryjones-emery807]

Shawn is blessed to have those 3 men be willing to be tested. The men are blessed to have Shawn's love. I love 'em all!

[@FactsVerse]

Couldn't agree more! Thank you for sharing your views on this. Be safe and have a great day ahead ❣

[@katleencraig4119]

My mother was told that she would have to choose between me and the man who fathered me. She was only 19 years old and just found out that she was pregnant with me. She chose me. I never met him, she told me about it when I 12 ,I was told that I had all his best traits. I never really needed to try to contact him or a half brother from his first family. I had the best people who truly loved me around me. I am always so very sorry for those who didn't have that. You are going to be in my prayers!

[@HS-xt6yw]

Good that it's settled but I'm sure Sean doesn't care who the dad is. He's always said John was his father and a great dad to him. His oldest daughter and my son went to high school together and Sean was my son's, and the team's, Mock Trial acting coach. What a sweet guy. Real giver with his time and always had time to talk to everyone

[@FactsVerse]

Absolutely, we feel the same way! Thank you for sharing your sentiments and for watching our content. What other types of video would you like to see on our channel?

[@charlotterivera-mx1lg]

I met Patty Duke when I was a little girl and God bless her and may she rest in peace. She was a beautiful person and I was very fortunate to have met her.

[@talk3194]

My Mom was a huge Patty Duke fan. My Mom also had a son and she didn’t know who the father was. She gave him up for adoption. It’s weird that I have a half brother in the world that I never met. I hope he’s happy and that he has had a wonderful life.

[@timcollins3794]

So your mom got around, maybe you shouldn't bring this up.

[@AJ-yw7hf]

@@timcollins3794 - If you mean you think she maybe shouldn't bring this up online, just realize that that person is using a username. Anyways, in her real life (offline), I hope that if she & her half brother ever want to meet, that they will have that opportunity and that it will turn out well for all involved.

[@suzanneforasiepi3942]

I remember you from other chat and previous comments have a great holiday weekend dear lady 💕🫂🍩☕

[@talk3194]

@@timcollins3794 are you saying that only celebrities should be talked about because they’re messed up and sometimes messed up shit happens - but ordinary people should keep it quiet and not talk about it publicly? If you are - you just publicly admitted you are messed up. It’s okay for life to be a little messed up from time to time. Perfection doesn’t exist for any of us.

[@user-eh2hj8bx6i]

Maybe you could consider a DNA test in case your half brother is looking for his blood relatives.

[@laraoneal7284]

Patty was a piece of work. I’m happy for Sean that he finally knows who his bio dad is. God bless him.

[@melodymsizemore4741]

Yes it sounds like she really was. Once Sean found out who his biological father was she didn't want to accept it!

[@deborahklinlger8565]

PATTY DUKE WAS BI- POLAR WHICH IS A S A MENTAL ILLNESS. UNTIL DIANOSED BY A MEDICAL DOCTOR AND TREATED WITH THE PROPER MEDICATIONS CAUSES A PERSON TO ACT STRANGELY I HAVE KNOWN SEVERAL PEOPLE IN MY LIFE WITH BI- POLAR USED TO bE CALLED MANIC/ DEPRESSIVE.

[@GoodVibesNewlevel2023]

Art really imitated her life

[@heatherwhatever7714]

I think anyone would be proud to have him as a son. He’s great.

[@jbk0507]

I agree ! I have loved him since Goonies.

[@chriswashburn9039]

Had no idea Patty Duke was his mother. I think he is a wonderful actor and loved his performance in the Lord of the Rings movies. Glad to see he has evidently lived a happy and successful life.

[@FactsVerse]

Beautiful words, thank you for your message for Sean. Which of his roles appealed to you the most?

[@chriswashburn9039]

@Facts Verse oh...definitely his Lord of the Rings movies!!! Could watch them every day!

[@vickieskridge1220]

I met Sean Astin at a wedding in LaPorte, IN. years ago and he was so sweet and charming!! Nicest guy ever!!!

[@FactsVerse]

Fun stuff! We're very happy to know that you had a chance to meet Astin. What other types of video would you like to see on our channel?

[@vickieskridge1220]

@@FactsVerse Thanks for asking but I honestly enjoy your choices! My interests vary greatly and enjoy learning tidbits that I would normally not think about. I've done lots of traveling and have met at least a dozen of celebrities and all by chance. The absolute nicest was Wolfgang Puck!! He asked me if I wanted his autograph and not anticipating on meeting him, I didn't even have anything handy for him to write on. He literally asked a stranger if I could have a piece of paper so he could give me his autograph!!! LOL!!

[@kellyalves756]

@Omar Zazzle I certainly have no moral high ground there. He seems like a good guy.

[@dianasoper7598]

Sean seems like a real, caring and a good man, and the fact that he made all three of them to be in his life really says a lot about him and his character and how he lives his life. He is a truly a good man and God bless them all. I hope they live a wonderful life and the more the merrier there’s just more people to love and that’s a great thing.❤

[@FactsVerse]

Thank you so much for your beautiful message to Sean--we're moved! In your opinion, what is his finest role?

[@MartaWomack]

I have a lot of respect for Sean & his generous spirit toward his 3 fathers & Patty. I grew up on the Patty Duke Show and seeing her movies & TV appearances. I was adopted & it always haunted me a little bit when I was young, so went on a search of my own in my 30's. Finding my birth mom was a pivotal moment in my life, too. Finding out her history was very healing & we have a good relationship, still. My adopted folks supported me all the way & grew very fond on my genetic mom in the process. She's a sweet, kind lady. Her reasons for giving me up were completely understandable. She was a 14 year old rape survivor. Her attacker was married to my mother's sister, making him my Uncle by marriage. He died before I could meet him. (Surprize dad!!😳😉)

[@FactsVerse]

Thank you so much for sharing your message for Sean and your thoughts. Be safe and have a great week ♥

[@minnietrout814]

I loved Patty Duke, and I think Sean Astin seems to be a really solid dude and a good actor.

[@FactsVerse]

We're very happy to know that you're a fan of Patty. Which of her roles appealed to you the most?

[@bunnylarese2161]

She raped a 17 year old, she was vile

[@jancull7624]

@@FactsVerse absolutely Hellen Kevlar I still watch it

[@farrellmcnulty909]

@@jancull7624 Neely O'Hara - Valley of the Dolls, although I did enjoy her television work. She did a couple of sitcoms for Fox, and I really loved her "portrayal" in Call Me Anna. Ths sitcoms were okay, hey were nice, but it was her presence that made them worth watching.

[@2935441]

Sean Aston has proved himself an inspiring man. From the chaos of his life he found a stable home life, a successful care and long and happy relationships with men who were part of his formative years. That is impressive.

[@SMtWalkerS]

Sean Astin has made a good life for himself, and a good career. I admire him. I remember watching Patty Duke in movies like "Valley of the Dolls". She was very talented and intense.

[@FactsVerse]

Beautiful words, thank you for your message for Sean. What is your most memorable role of his?

[@sandramoore8903]

Good for Sean Astin! He has a good head on his shoulders and knows the importances of loving relationships in all the people you come in contact with.

[@vickiwaatti1076]

Sean is my favorite actor. Not only for his looks, acting skills, but, for his heart

[@judithdutton4631]

Sean Austin knew who his real father was. He was even adopted by John Aston. He did not know who his biological father was.

[@lisav.9414]

Nice. Thanks!

[@catbertie27]

^^^^^ this!!!!!!!

[@Joelswinger34]

Obviously that is what they meant.

[@denasharpe2393]

Amen....well said and truly understood!!

[@bluegrasshack3810]

Real and bio are NOT necessarily the same. Thank God!

[@mijiyoon5575]

I had no idea who his mother was much less his father ... he is blessed though to have that many positive people in his life...that is a gift

[@heatherstephens9295]

Absolutely love his acting ❤ He deserved an Oscar for his role in Lord of the Rings 👍

[@suemount6042]

Yes he did loved him in LOTR

[@DragonNinja4680]

I also feel he deserved an Oscar for Rudy.

[@lorilong2195]

After watching a video of a 6 yr old dying and then disposed of by his mom and her boyfriend, it’s nice to see a happy video where a boy was raised by loving and caring mom. Plus had 3 dad figures, that loved him, and supported him, even after finding out that one of them is his bio dad. As an adopted child, it makes my heart happy for those who find their bio family and live happily ever after with their bio family as part of their life.

[@jessediaz3507]

I didn't even know that Patty Duke was his mother. I loved watching the Patty Duke show as a kid and always have liked Patty Duke. I always liked Sean Astin so knowing Patty Duke is his mother makes him that much more popular with me. Thanks for the video and the info.

[@rs3007]

John Astin is still living at 93!!!!

[@dixiepeach8698]

Shawn was very fortunate to have so many men love him as a father. Shawn also has a beautiful family .

[@FactsVerse]

Well said, we strongly concur! Thank you for watching our content and for sharing your thoughts. What other types of video would you like to see?

[@darkangel_1978]

John Astin adopted Sean (or so I heard). As far as Sean is concerned, John is his father. I met Sean in 2017, and I asked how his Dad was and he said that his Dad was doing well. At that time, John was a professor in the theater department at Johns Hopkins (he's since retired). We also talked about his Mom, because she had battled depression, and my Mom had too, so we were comparing notes about how we handled it. His Mom died due to an illness, whereas my Mom committed suicide. But as I was telling him about the stuff I went through, he was confirming he'd either been through the same exact thing or something similar. He was very sweet and it was nice that he listened and sympathized with me.

[@Syndi0513]

I agree. This speaks volumes of Sean's character. Also, of the unconditional love his mom provided. She did well, as did his father Ashton. This story was well written and told. Thank you.

[@tdotjazzberryram61]

His name is Astin

[@Bigrich104]

​@@tdotjazzberryram61 Gomez to us old folk!

[@farrellmcnulty909]

@@Bigrich104 Yes - and a one-shot Riddler.

[@leewitte4580]

I did know that Sean knew that his bio father was not John, but I did not know that it was Tell. Sean is a great actor and always seems like a very nice guy! It is great that he has kept all three of these men in his life.

[@frankrossi9255]

I worked with Patty three times in New York at the Jerry Lewis Labor Day Telethon. Her and John Astin hosted the NY leg of the telethon and I trust her judgement. Patty was such a kind and down to earth person. This was in 1979, I was young and was a volunteer at the telethon. I was working the "green room" making the guests comfortable and getting them food and drinks. Every year I did the telethon, I was always there from beginning to end, being awake for well over 30 hours and Patty was always very sweet to me and always thanked me so much for my service. It was such a thrill to be there, especially at the end when we were on stage and they announced the final total for the Tri-State area and the balloons dropped and the confetti fell.............. Those were the days

[@FactsVerse]

We're very happy to know that you had a chance to work with Patty and to know that she is a kind person. We miss her. Be safe and have a great day ❤

[@stephanieburns4560]

I met Patty Duke in the 90's. She was very kind & seemed very grounded. Having all aspects of your life in the open (especially the stuff from your 20s) must have been tough. Never mind being the target of grifters that steal $$ from celebs. For her incredible talent she deserved more perks from fame.

[@FactsVerse]

Fun stuff, thank you so much for sharing this info about Patty Duke. We're very happy to know that you had a nice time with her. Which of her roles appealed to you the most?

[@franwebb7756]

She was an incredible actor. Loved her show as a teen. Sean is so talented and handsome.

[@montanamangum4026]

What a lucky man! He found three dads all standing at his side! His mom was phenomenal! Glad she was in such a beautiful place when she passed. She deserved the best for all she gave us! And Sean? I've loved ever film! Every part! Incredible actor and incredible person! He deserves all the best as well!

[@FactsVerse]

Well said, we strongly concur! Thank you for watching our content and for sharing your thoughts. What other types of video would you like to see?

[@janemariehoward]

As an avid genealogist I encourage ANYONE in the dark about their paternity to take a DNA test. It can link you up with wonderful and supportive relatives you never knew you had and can help heal the hurt.

[@debbiemartin2026]

It can open a can of worms especially if you are older Happened with me.

[@kirstencurley8274]

I’ve had my DNA on multiple sites for years and I’m no closer to knowing who my biological father is. I seem to have no close family on the paternal side at all. I even had my dna tested to determine if I was inbred and I’m not. All the dna tests have done is prove my mom lied to me. My mother and I no longer speak because she refuses to tell me or admit she doesn’t know. I’m 50 years old and I feel like the older I get the less chance I have of ever knowing where half of me came from.

[@AL-kh7pz]

​@@kirstencurley8274 Have you tried DNAngels? It wasn't until I reached out to them that I finally found the answer they have a Facebook page.

[@bjwilliams]

@@kirstencurley8274 if you are a healthy smart person Kirsten, be happy with that!! You look amazing...living in freedom=America!! 🌴❤greetings northern California...hot sunny today😎

[@Lily-wp8ol]

I really think Ms. Dukes bi-polar disorder should have been mentioned. It does explain a lot of her turbulent youth. Bi-polar disorder was not as well understood as it is today.

[@Col92519]

Oh please

[@MummyBrown]

That’s so true. Wasn’t Vivian Leigh also bi-polar?

[@Enthusiasmisgood]

@@Col92519You don’t believe mental illnesses are a real thing?

[@carblarson8868]

@@MummyBrown I believe so.

[@maryoleary2037]

Patty's bipolar disorder was mentioned at 2.24.

[@isabellavalencia8026]

The best gift a mother can give her child is thier father.

[@FactsVerse]

Well said, we strongly concur! Thank you for watching our content and for sharing your thoughts. What other types of video would you like to see?

[@cheetajet320]

He looks just like his father in that wedding picture. I knew it the second I saw it!

[@lavonnekelly9173]

Sean seems like a really decent human being so his mom did something right there....

[@carolsmart238]

I’m 75 & remember when Patty was in the news a lot.Lucille Ball was furious about her going after her son. She called her every name in the book & stayed do mad, people thought she’d attack Patty or have a heart attack bc she couldn’t. Any parent would be mad to have their 17 year old involved with a 23 year old & then have a baby.Lucy said it was not her don’s baby & she was right. Patty was a great actress, but really suffered with her bi-polar, plus having her life plastered in all the papers & magazines & mentioned on the radio shows. Sean is a special guy & lucky to have the 3 men in his life. So glad he’s happily married with a family, & that Patty was able to find some happiness & stability in her life. It’s sad she suffered her whole life with her health problems & at the end. She had her career & the love of her sons & grandchildren!🙏🏼💕

[@deborahlongworth4904]

No, I didn’t know. Congrats to Sean for a happy family , important father figures and success in his career!

[@gloriahohman2790]

It's a wonderful feeling to learn who your biological parents are whether it's one or both. I'm grateful for my experience and what I've been blessed to learn and meet my siblings.

[@FactsVerse]

Well said, we strongly concur! Thank you for watching our content and for sharing your thoughts. What other types of video would you like to see?

[@garycarpenter2980]

I'm really shocked 😳 about this I had thought John Astin was his father now I know.... so he does have a brother and I'm glad that John was a good father to him RIP Patty Duke Astin

[@maryellenyarusso7029]

Great that John and Desi don't care about DNA and both accept Sean as their son

[@FactsVerse]

Thanks for watching! We're glad to know that you love our video. If we may ask, what other types of video would you like to see on our channel?

[@garycarpenter2980]

I'd love to know about the marriage of Carolyn Jones to Aaron Spelling before he remarried to his second wife

[@1960swtsue]

Anyone can be a father but it takes someone special to be a dad. John astin to me is his dad

[@bluegrasshack3810]

You said it so well!

[@nancymayberry1900]

I loved Patty Duke's roles she played. I had thought that Desi Jr was his dad but it always popped up once in a while who was his father. Likes his movies also.

[@carolfitzgerald9935]

Poor guy. He’s been through a lot. I admire him as an actor.

[@denisemarie6029]

I’m so glad to hear Sean is doing so well! What a great guy, he is!

[@ednaamck3831]

What a nice story. Mr. Sean seems to be one of those blessed persons whose lives are kissed by God: Three men willing to step up as fathers, three healthy pretty daughters, a committed Hollywood wife, a mom who had her own struggles but worked hard to keep her sons’ well being at the forefront and a flourishing acting career. Yes, Mr. Sean is blessed. I hope he remains committed to his family and never loose focus of his mom’s legacy of taking care of the family and the legacy of the men who loved him as their own.

[@erinmalone2669]

In a world where many people have no father figure, it is remarkable that he has three men in his life that are father figures. It is very lucky for him, and I hope he can be the best father he can to his children.

[@LQOTW]

The Headline is misleading. Yes, Sean Astin spent several years unsure of who his biological father is, but it's been a good quarter century or more since that question was put to rest. So, Sean *FINALLY* found out in the 1990s.

[@marvineblackburn7846]

So glad he found out and that all 3 men were willing to help him.

[@helenfong3339]

Yes, I knew. I'm glad he finally found out who his bio father is. He had great examples of men who were potentially his father. I found out I was adopted in my 30s. In my heart, I only have one father, the father who raised me.

[@trinitymdc3974]

John Astin is his real father. Michael Tell is his birth father. A "real" father is the one who loves, supports and provides for a child, accepting the son (or daughter) as his own. That would be John Astin. How lucky Sean was to receive affection and acceptance from all three men.

[@trinitymdc3974]

@@hlw1306 True. My point is that the term "real father" should be reserved for the father that raised a child. Tell may have made a wonderful father, given the chance.

[@marycook1644]

Very true !! 🐣🌷

[@nancimontesinos7868]

I had heard the story about him not knowing who his father was. But I never knew it had been confirmed. It's nice that he has a relationship with all three men.

[@barbarat5729]

Well my goodness my parents never would have let us know Patty Duke wasn't the queen of clean when we were teens. We loved her and still do. My mom was a psych nurse and greatly admired her for sharing her struggles later in life. May she rest in peace.

[@fabiwilliams4644]

He has the exuberant personality of his mother. Very charismatic

[@FactsVerse]

Well said, we strongly concur! Thank you for watching our content and for sharing your thoughts. What other types of video would you like to see?

[@KatyWatson173]

His real father is John Astin his biological father is Michael Tell.

[@nantibbs834]

Yes i remembered hearing about it! I did no th know he found out! So happy for him that three dads were willing to love and care for him. That is awesome in this world. Incredible story. Your mom was a great actress. Enjoyed seeing her in everything. Best wishes for you from now on!

[@gidgetpll]

Sean is one of the most talented actors out there. He has been underrated and overlooked in my opinion. I have loved him as an actor since Goonies and have yet to see him in anything I didn’t like. His ability to emote a wide range of emotions with depth and genuineness is what makes the characters he plays so real and unforgettable. It is rare to fine actors like him and I appreciate him for sharing his talents/skills with the world via some of the most famous and unforgettable movies and characters of the big screen. I am happy he finally learned who is real Dad is and that he maintained a good relationship with all of the men regardless.

[@Stopstaring101]

I’ve always very much enjoyed Patty Duke movies and TV. I’ve also watched Sean grow up from little until now and he always seems like a very kind person 😃👍🏼 I have enjoyed watching his movies as well 🏆🥇 He and his mother were and are, great talents 🎊!! Rest now, dear Patty 😴

[@FactsVerse]

Beautiful words, thank you for your message for Patty. Which of her roles appealed to you the most?

[@Stopstaring101]

@@FactsVerse Thank you 🙏🏼 There are SO many favorites that I want to say “All of them” 😁 It would be true. Of course I love the tried and true shows such as BOTH “The Miracle Worker” movies. But I also very much enjoy watching One Woman’s Courage, Last Wish, The Storyteller and Grave Secrets. Her presence in film is soarly missed. There are no actresses left like her anymore 😞 She was a very professional, talented versatile, eclectic and believable actress. These are all reasons she was loved and respected so much by all of her fans 🥰🍿🎊💐

[@G.Lollie]

wow. I had no idea Shawn didn't know. so glad this had a happy ending for him. he is a wonderful actor and seems to be an amazing person.

[@belle9438]

He looks like Michael Tell. He has his eyes. Sean seems a wonderful man. He's a wonderful actor. I also like John Astin, who probably gave the boys the stablity they needed growing up around Patty.

[@Godwinpounds4333]

Hello 👋 how are you doing?

[@jacquelinerosenwald1524]

So glad everything worked out for Sean and his extended family!

[@tishamonroe7418]

sean is so handsome and talented. Sounds like he has high integrity also. He has a kind face that makes you smile.

[@kathyastrom1315]

This was pretty well known when the LOTR films were released. In fact, Sean was not the only member of the cast to grow up with a mistaken idea of who their biological father was. Liv Tyler’s mom had listed the singer Michael Des Barres as Liv’s father on her birth certificate. She only figured out it was Steven Tyler when she was a teen. Orlando Bloom had grown up thinking his mother’s first husband was his bio father, but it turned out to be a family friend. He discovered that info when he too was a teen.

[@FactsVerse]

Intriguing, thanks for sharing this info about Sean. Be safe and have a great day ❤

[@bunacat1]

Actually, it was Todd Rundgren not Michael Des Barres. Rundgren signed her birth certificate and she kept his last name as her middle name when she started using Tyler.

[@ChristChickAutistic]

How cool is that, 3 dads who love him.

[@FactsVerse]

Well said, we strongly concur! Thank you for watching our content and for sharing your thoughts. What other types of video would you like to see?

[@lynnhanson2169]

He is also close with his stepfather, too! What a great man Sean is!

[@zebeart8808]

Thanks for the video

[@debbystardust]

I recommend Patty Duke’s autobiography Call Me Anna. It is a riveting read. I especially admire her performances in the George Washington miniseries with Barry Bostwick and as Neely O’Hara in Valley of the Dolls.

[@trubrit5036]

Let us not forget his other dad, Gaffer Gamgee. I discovered my bio dad, when I was 60. It was a surreal event, but somewhat settling, after years of believing I would never know him, as his name is not on my birth certificate. So grateful for modern technology and genetic testing.

[@irenecarpenter6034]

I had read about Sean ‘s dilemma and his confusion about who his father really was. This confirms what I had read before. I was very much a big fan of Patty Duke, we had close birthdays! But never got over her problems and crazy life. But no matter what, I’m a big fan of her and Sean!!! When he did Rudy, I always cried!!!

[@cindyj5522]

What a remarkably stable person he seems to be given his mother's manic life and narcissism. I'm glad John Astin was good to him and the had Desi, Jr as another supportive father figure. I think he is a good actor who deserves his own success along with a happy life.

[@GringoLatino941]

I met her! At 1987 academy awards! In morning and then spoke to her when we were on -at night- on red carpet. Nice woman!

[@FactsVerse]

Glad to know that you had a chance to meet Patty. Thank you so much for sharing your life story. Which of Patty's roles appealed to you the most?

[@GringoLatino941]

@@FactsVerse many. Miracle worker is one. Her tv show another. Etc.

[@donnariggs1567]

how blessed is he to have 3 fathers and for those who don't hugs....

[@lizziesangi1602]

John Astin gave Patty stability and it shows the baseline foundation of stability and values he gave his family. Patty Duke didn't have it easy. Her parents were not good to her. All wonderful people and much respect to them.

[@robertpage2023]

As a child actor and with a mother with problems, it's a wonder that he turned out "normal". I'm happy for him and I hope he loses that weight so that he can keep on playing those great characters.

[@bjbo72]

Why would u.mention weight? U must be a karen.

[@MissValdostaFeedAndGrain]

3 possible fathers? And I can’t even lock in a date for coffee😂😂😂

[@anneb889]

Patty kinda got around it seems….

[@patricebest545]

Lucky guy 3 dad's and one of them Gomez Addams🙂

[@JennyT101]

Its messed up for a mother to do that to a child. My sister has no idea who her father is and my mother has never helped her sort it out.

[@janemariehoward]

She needs to take a DNA test!!

[@newnana9070]

This young man has class and compassion!! I have much respect for him.

[@clarkbowen9882]

Sean-I always loved your mom. John is still one of my favorite crazy guys. You are a very blessed man. May God love you and yours. Thanks for your hard work all these years.

[@FactsVerse]

Beautiful words, thank you for your message for Sean. In your opinion, what is his finest role?