Ryan Thomas Confronts Dad Over Abandoning Him As A Child In Emotional New Documentary

Ryan Thomas broke down in tears as he confronted his father about abandoning him as a child in new ITV show, Absolutely India: Mancs in Mumbai.

Ryan, 35 along with his twin brothers Adam and Scott, 31, and their dad Dougie, have been touring India as part of the new series, exploring their own Indian roots and immersing themselves in the culture of the country.

But in Wednesday night's episode, the brothers became emotional while chatting to their dad - who is a music promoter and lead singer of 70s band Dougie James and the Soul Train - about his six year absence when they were kids.

After a shot of Dougie sitting on the beach having a drink, Ryan explains: "Dad often has time out... And when we were growing up, that's exactly what he did.

"After our parents split up, he left home, and we didn't see him for six years. I was 11, and Adam and Scott were just seven.

"[...] Even though dad came back into our lives and we're a loving family now, there's still a lot of hurt."

ITV)

While the family are in Goa, the brothers along with dad Dougie sit down at a wellness retreat where they are able to open up about their feelings.

"You always turn everything into a joke. You've never apologised, not once!" Says Adam.

While Scott adds: "I'm so proud of us three as brothers, I'm so proud of what Ryan's done as a father figure for us."

Adam continues: "He was there when you weren't and he had to grow up fast, when he shouldn't have had to."

At this point, Ryan can be seen breaking down in tears.

"I just missed you everyday, dad. Every day. Every single day, dad. Just waiting for you to come back," he says.

Meanwhile, Dougie admitted: "I didn't have the strength."

ITV)

Viewers were heartbroken at the scene, with many taking to Twitter to say they were sobbing.

One wrote: "Felt so sad watching @ryanjamesthomas crying but you brothers are so close it's lovely to watch."

While another said: "Your pain is very real and I just want to say how heartwarming it is to listen to 3 young men tell their absent father how much it hurt. It's not a subject often challenged but it should be, well done!"

"Just watched #mancsinmumbai my god I was crying with them, I can't imagine how proud your mum is of you all I absolutely love ya, you all make me laugh roll on next week," said another.

You can catch up with Absolutely India: Mancs in Mumbai over on ITV Hub now!

Topics: Ryan Thomas, Celebrity News, TV News, TV Entertainment

Lucy Devine

Lucy is a journalist working for Tyla. After graduating with a master's degree in journalism, she has worked in both print and online and is particularly interested in fashion, food, health and women's issues. Northerner, coffee addict, says hun a lot. Get in touch at [email protected].

@lucedevine