Stanley Tucci is returning to his roots in the new food-travel series “Tucci in Italy,” where he explores the beautiful landscapes, rich heritage, and diverse culinary traditions of Italy. This new venture comes less than three years after his previous series, “Searching for Italy,” which was critically acclaimed but ultimately canceled by CNN. In this new series produced by National Geographic, Tucci dives deeper into the stories that connect the land, its people, and the food they cherish.
Set against the backdrop of Italy’s stunning regions—including Tuscany, Trentino-Alto Adige, Lombardy, Abruzzo, and Lazio—the show reveals not just the delights of traditional dishes but also addresses pressing social issues, such as immigration and LGBTQ+ rights. Tucci emphasizes the complex tapestry of Italian society, illustrating that while Italy is often seen through a sunny lens of food and family, there are deeper narratives waiting to be uncovered.
Throughout the episodes, Tucci visits local kitchens, from a Michelin-star restaurant in Milan to the banks of the Sarca River, showcasing the unique flavors and ingredients that highlight regional cuisine. “The people are great, extraordinary,” he enthuses about his encounters. The series aims to broaden its scope beyond well-known cities and showcase lesser-known areas and their cultural significance.
Accompanied by advanced filming technology like drones, Tucci’s new series hopes to capture the essence of Italy’s diverse landscapes and culinary delights. Executive producer Lottie Birmingham remarks that the series will take viewers into new territories, emphasizing the importance of looking beyond popular tourist destinations.
Reflecting on the show’s mission to portray Italy authentically, Tucci aims to highlight that life in Italy is not merely about culinary enjoyment; it also reveals the struggles and challenges faced by its people. He expresses a desire to show both the enchanting and the complicated facets of Italian life.
With fresh insights and a heartfelt narrative, “Tucci in Italy” offers an exciting journey that resonates with both longtime fans and new audiences alike. It promises to celebrate Italy not just as a picturesque backdrop for food but as a living, breathing culture with its joys and plight.