Stanley Tucci to host new culinary series exploring Italy on National Geographic

Acclaimed actor Stanley Tucci will host a new five-part series titled Tucci in Italy, which will showcase a culinary experience across Italy. The series is scheduled to premiere on 21^st May at 8pm on National Geographic. UK viewers will have the opportunity to stream all episodes on Disney+ starting from 19^th May.

Produced by Tucci’s own SALT Productions in partnership with BBC Studios’ Specialist Factual Productions, the show promises to deliver more than just a cooking series. It aims to explore the rich heritage, diverse cultures and historical intricacies of Italy through food. The program will cover five distinct regions: Tuscany, Lombardy, Trentino-Alto Adige, Abruzzo and Lazio.

Tucci, known for his roles in numerous critically acclaimed films and series, brings his passion for Italian cuisine to the forefront of this series. “Italy is a feast for the senses, and Tucci in Italy is an invitation to the table. It’s about more than just the food; it’s about the people, the history and the passion that makes Italy so special. I hope you’ll join me on this new adventure. I believe that eating well is inspiring, and I hope to inspire viewers to embrace the beauty and richness of Italian culture,” Tucci commented regarding the series.

Throughout the show, Tucci will engage with local chefs, food aficionados, fishermen and artisans, extracting untold stories and unveiling hidden culinary gems. His exploration extends beyond popular dishes and into the creation of unexpected meals like pine needle pesto and futuristic farm-to-table delicacies in Lombardy.

Each episode will focus on a different region. For example, Tuscany’s episode will highlight iconic traditions like the grand outdoor feast in Siena and unusual breakfast dishes in Florence. Lombardy’s feature will delve into its progressive food scene, influenced by its industrial backdrop. In Trentino-Alto Adige, the series will explore the blend of Italian and German cultures that shape local gastronomy.

Abruzzo’s rugged landscapes and their influence on local cuisine will be showcased, while Lazio’s episode will attempt to tie the rural heartlands to the gastronomical practices in Rome.

Tucci in Italy aims to entertain and enrich the viewer’s understanding of Italy’s culinary lore, making it a must-watch for food lovers and cultural explorers alike. The entire suite of episodes promises viewers a fresh and immersive way to experience Italy – through the eyes and tastes of Stanley Tucci.

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Tucci in Italy is released on Disney+ on 19^th May 2025.

Watch the trailer for Tucci in Italy here: