Stanley Tucci’s acclaimed travel show franchise is heading across the Atlantic. After earning three Emmy Awards for his CNN series exploring Italy’s regional cuisine, Tucci is shifting gears for his National Geographic program’s upcoming season. The celebrated actor and producer announced that he will be filming in the United Kingdom, where he has maintained a full-time residence for the past 15 years.
Tucci explained his decision to explore British food culture in an interview with Variety’s Awards Circuit Podcast. He cited London’s recent recognition as the world’s best food destination, along with the country’s exceptional produce, seafood, and meat sourced from dedicated local producers. The actor expressed enthusiasm about featuring the nation’s farm-to-table culinary movement and the craftspeople behind it, from fishermen to artisanal cheesemakers.
The move comes as Tucci continues to balance his prolific career in acting with his hosting duties. Currently nominated for an Emmy for outstanding hosted nonfiction series, he is also working on “The Devil Wears Prada 2” while contemplating how to manage his workload as he approaches 66. Tucci stated his goal is to orchestrate his professional commitments to allow for more time at home without sacrificing his creative ambitions, which include directing plays and making films.
The travel show concept originated two decades ago, though initial industry responses were lukewarm until CNN embraced the idea of exploring Italy region by region.