Malta takes lead role in Richard E. Grant's new travel series for Channel 4

The Maltese Islands are the star of the opening episode of Richard E. Grant's new travel series Very Modern Odyssey, a four-part programme inspired by Homer's epic.

The first episode aired on 2nd August 2026 across three major markets: the UK on Channel 4, Canada on CBC, and Australia on SBS. The series follows Grant as he explores locations tied to Odysseus's journey, blending history, culture, food, and modern experiences.

The Malta Tourism Authority's Digital Unit coordinated the episode with producers, ensuring the islands' heritage and cultural assets were woven into the narrative. The episode opens at the Grand Harbour, moves through Valletta and St John's Co-Cathedral, and includes stops in Gozo.

Malta's gastronomy, architecture, history, and Mediterranean character are central to Grant's journey. The Guardian called the show a "real success of a show" and noted Grant's evident fascination with Valletta and Gozo.

For the MTA, this is a deliberate play for a specific traveller. CEO Carlo Micallef said the collaboration gives Malta "an important platform to reach discerning international travellers through an engaging and authentic story."

Chairman Dr Charles Mangion added that the prominence in the opening episode "strengthens our international visibility among audiences who value culture, history and authentic experiences." He tied it directly to the MTA's ambition to attract "quality tourism throughout the year."

Director of International Marketing Arthur Grima said Grant's "genuine curiosity and enthusiasm" allows audiences to discover Malta through a "highly engaging lens." Featuring Malta at the very start of the series, he said, provides "valuable exposure to travellers looking for distinctive cultural and historical experiences."

The MTA said such collaborations are part of a wider strategy using high-quality television and digital productions to reach new audiences and strengthen Malta's appeal across key tourism segments.

For Malta's hospitality and tourism sectors, the message is clear: the target is no longer just arrivals numbers, but the kind of visitor who books a trip after seeing St John's Co-Cathedral on a Sunday evening broadcast.