Stanley Tucci is returning to the breathtaking landscapes and rich flavors of the Mediterranean, as National Geographic has officially released the trailer for Tucci in Italy Season 2. The acclaimed travel and food series, which has captivated audiences with its blend of cinematic beauty and culinary curiosity, is set to expand its exploration of the Italian peninsula with five new episodes.
The series will make its return to National Geographic on May 11 at 9/8c, followed by a premiere on Disney+ and Hulu on May 12, 2026 (via ABC11). This new installment arrives during a prolific period for Tucci, who is also slated to appear in the highly anticipated The Devil Wears Prada 2.
A Culinary Journey Through Five New Regions
In the second season of Tucci in Italy, the host delves deeper into the regional diversity of the country, focusing on areas that often escape the mainstream tourist gaze. A primary highlight is the visit to Le Marche, a region along the Adriatic coast in central Italy known for rich culinary delights that remain relatively undiscovered by international visitors.
The exploration extends to Campania and its vibrant capital, Naples, where Tucci celebrates a once-forgotten vine grape. In Veneto, the series tackles one of Italy’s most passionate gastronomic disputes: the true origins of tiramisu. The journey also takes Tucci to two distinct islands, examining the intersection of geography, history, and diet:
- Sardinia: An investigation into the relationship between traditional food and longevity.
- Sicily: An exploration of how multicultural history has left a distinct and delicious mark on the island’s cuisine.
Beyond the regional specialties, the new season features an exclusive encounter where Tucci dines with the Royal Family of the world’s smallest kingdom (via People.com), adding a layer of diplomatic charm to the season’s culinary focus.
“In Italy, food is never just food. It’s memory, identity, and, sometimes, a full-blown argument,” Tucci stated. “This season, we explore how the past continues to shape the present, one region and one extraordinary meal at a time. I’m so pleased to share these captivating stories and these wonderful people with you.”
Critical Success and Production Pedigree
The return of the series follows a highly successful first season, which debuted in May 2025. Since its launch, the show has maintained a perfect approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and earned an Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Hosted Nonfiction Series or Special.
The high production value is a result of a collaborative effort between several major studios. Tucci in Italy is executive-produced by Stanley Tucci and Lottie Birmingham for Salt Productions, alongside Amanda Lyon for BBC Studios, as well as Ben Jessop and Yari Lorenzo for National Geographic.
Key Show Details at a Glance
| Platform | Premiere Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| National Geographic | May 11, 2026 | Airs at 9/8c |
| Disney+ / Hulu | May 12, 2026 | 5 New Episodes |
As Tucci balances his passion for Italian gastronomy with his return to the world of high fashion in The Devil Wears Prada 2, this series continues to serve as a bridge between celebrity culture and authentic cultural anthropology. By focusing on “memory and identity,” the show moves beyond simple travelogue territory to explore how food defines the human experience.
Fans can expect the first new episode to air on National Geographic on May 11. We will continue to provide updates as more information regarding the specific episode rollout on streaming platforms becomes available.
What region of Italy are you most excited to spot Stanley Tucci explore? Share your thoughts in the comments below or share this article with a fellow food lover.