Channel 5 has ordered a new travel series fronted by Celebs Go Dating star Tom Read Wilson, alongside a panel-style game show hosted by Jeremy Vine—marking a double play for primetime formats built around familiar faces.
Read Wilson will front a landmark-hopping factual entertainment series, bringing his arch wit and theatrical flair to Britain’s best-known sites. Set to air later this year, the show will mix cultural deep-dives with humorous travelogue, inviting viewers to rediscover national icons through a more personal—and playful—lens.
The commission sees Channel 5 expanding its roster of personality-led factual titles, echoing a wider trend across broadcasters following the success of talent-driven travelogues like Rob and Rylan’s Grand Tour on BBC. With Read Wilson’s distinct voice, the network is aiming to tap into the same appetite for accessible, entertaining history through a familiar face.
Alongside the travel series, Channel 5 has also greenlit Celebrity Puzzling, an eight-episode primetime format hosted by Jeremy Vine. Sally Lindsay and Carol Vorderman will serve as team captains, steering weekly guest line-ups including Stephen Bailey, Miles Jupp, Shaun Williamson and Les Dennis. The 60-minute episodes will test logic, lateral thinking, and problem-solving skills—with only bragging rights on the line.
This dual commission underscores Channel 5’s current focus: warm-format, talent-fronted programming with wide appeal. As audiences increasingly favour low-stress, high-familiarity viewing, both shows align with a strategy that prizes accessibility, gentle humour, and brand-name personalities.
Air dates for both series will be confirmed in the coming months. Celebrity Puzzling and Tom Read Wilson’s travel show will also be available on My5 after broadcast.
