BBC One and Naked West: The Return of Celebrity Escape to the Country

Nov 19, 2024 at 12:00 AM
BBC One and the Fremantle label, Naked West, have made an exciting announcement. The fan-favorite series, Celebrity Escape to the Country, is set to make a comeback and grace our screens in December. This star-studded spin-off follows in the long-standing success of the original Escape to the Country format.

Bringing Back the Christmas Treat

Last year's inaugural series of Celebrity Escape to the Country achieved great success, peaking at nearly 3 million viewers. Now, it's all set to continue with new celebrity faces and rural locations. This special hour-long series takes celebrities on a journey beyond their urban lives as they search for their perfect country home. They get to experience the joys and challenges of finding the ultimate rural retreat while celebrating the beauty of the British countryside. Each episode not only showcases the idyllic property market but also delves into the personal stories behind each celebrity's decision to make the big move to the countryside.The celebrities participating in this series are Olympic champion Linford Christie OBE, musical legend Alfie Boe OBE, broadcaster and author Anita Rani, pop sensation H from Steps, renowned journalist Kaye Adams, and The Apprentice winner and entrepreneur Tim Campbell MBE.Julie Shaw, Daytime Commissioner, shares her thoughts, saying, "Our homes are at the core of our sense of belonging. Finding a new home is a significant decision for anyone, whether famous or not. In this series, we gain insight into the celebrities' careers, families, and the journey they've been on long before the cameras and spotlights. We cover the UK from the stunning hills and Vale of Glamorgan to the vibrant world-famous cities like Glasgow. It's a magical tour of some of the UK's most beautiful homes."Rob Unsworth, Head of BBC Daytime and Early Peak commissioning, adds, "Last year's Celebrity Escape to the Country was a real Christmas treat. We are thrilled to bring it back for a second series. With this brilliant lineup of beloved familiar faces, we get a unique insight into their personalities as they hunt for a potential new home. Who doesn't want a sneak peek into a celebrity's living room?"Tom O'Brien, Managing Director of Naked, comments, "We are delighted to be bringing back one of last year's standout success stories - the Celebrity edition of Escape. Loved by viewers for its unique and off-beat tone, it's great to be expanding on one of our strongest regional brands."John Comerford, Head of Naked West, says, "After the success of the last series, we are excited to bring a second series of Celebrity Escape to the Country to BBC One and help celebrities find their dream home in the British countryside."Celebrity Escape to the Country has been commissioned for BBC One and BBC iPlayer by Rob Unsworth. The Commissioning Editor is Julie Shaw. It is a Naked West (a Fremantle label) production, with Emma Smith and John Comerford serving as the Executive Producers.The celebrities embark on a quest to find their ideal country abode. Linford Christie OBE, with his Olympic prowess, brings a sense of determination and a love for the outdoors. Alfie Boe OBE, the musical legend, is looking for a peaceful place to unwind and draw inspiration from nature. Anita Rani, the broadcaster and author, seeks a home that will inspire her work and provide a haven for her family. H from Steps, the pop sensation, is eager to escape the city lights and embrace a more laid-back lifestyle. Kaye Adams, the renowned journalist, is on a mission to find a home that reflects her personality and allows her to connect with nature. Tim Campbell MBE, the entrepreneur, is looking for a property that will serve as a base for his business and a place to relax.Each celebrity's story is unique, and their search for a country home is a personal one. They face various challenges along the way, from finding the right property to adapting to a new way of life. But through it all, they discover the beauty and tranquility of the British countryside.The series showcases the diverse range of properties available in the UK. From charming cottages in the hills to grand estates in the Vale of Glamorgan, there is something for everyone. The celebrities get to explore different regions and immerse themselves in the local culture. They meet local people, learn about the history and traditions of the area, and gain a new appreciation for the countryside.In conclusion, Celebrity Escape to the Country is not just a show about finding a home; it's a journey of self-discovery and a celebration of the British countryside. With its star-studded lineup and captivating stories, it's sure to be a hit with viewers.