Rob Brydon Hits the Road for Country Music Centenary in New BBC Series

Rob Brydon's Honky Tonk Road Trip: A Journey Through Country Music

Join Rob Brydon in Rob Brydon's Honky Tonk Road Trip, a three-part series on BBC Two, as he embarks on a 2,000-mile journey through the southern United States to celebrate 100 years of country music. Premiering on October 5, 2025, the series explores iconic venues, meets country stars, and delves into the genre's roots.

Brydon's Southern Adventure

Brydon, known for his roles in Gavin & Stacey and The Trip, initially hesitated to host the show, feeling unqualified. However, he embraced the opportunity to discover country music, starting in Nashville, Tennessee, the heart of the genre. He visits the Ryman Auditorium, broadcasts from WSM Radio (home of the Grand Ole Opry), and encounters both legendary and emerging artists.

The journey extends beyond Nashville, taking Brydon to the Appalachian Mountains, where he explores the folk traditions that shaped country music's earliest sounds. He also highlights the often-overlooked contributions of Black musicians to the genre's development.

Encounters and Insights

Throughout his travels, Brydon interviews a diverse range of musicians, including Luke Combs, Marty Stuart, Bill Anderson, and British talent Twinnie. He even runs into Gary Barlow, who frequents Nashville for its songwriting talent. Brydon's gentle and respectful interviewing style allows him to extract fascinating stories and musings on the spirit of country music.

Brydon's wardrobe also reflects the journey. From "Yellowstone cowpoke" attire with flannel shirts and Stetsons to an Elvis Presley suit for a performance at an Elvis festival in Franklin, Tennessee, he fully immerses himself in the culture.

How to Watch

Viewers in the UK can watch Rob Brydon’s Honky Tonk Road Trip for free on BBC iPlayer with a valid UK TV licence. For viewers in Canada, accessing the series requires a reliable VPN connected to a UK server to bypass geo-restrictions.

Key Elements of the Road Trip

• Exploring iconic venues like the Ryman Auditorium and Sun Studios.
• Broadcasting from WSM Radio, the home of the Grand Ole Opry.
• Meeting country stars old and new, including Luke Combs and Bill Anderson.
• Discovering the roots of country music in the Appalachian Mountains.
• Highlighting the influence of Black musicians on the genre.

Episode Breakdown

Episode 1

Begins in Nashville, visiting iconic venues and broadcasting from WSM Radio, while meeting country stars old and new.

Episode 2

Explores folk traditions and raw musical roots in the Appalachian Mountains that shaped the soul of country music.

Episode 3 (Season Finale)

Highlights the influence of Black musicians on the genre, offering a heartfelt look at their legacy during country music’s centennial celebrations.