National Geographic Unveils First-Look Trailer for Emmy-Nominated Tucci in Italy Season 2
National Geographic has officially released the first-look trailer for the highly anticipated second season of Tucci in Italy, the Emmy®-nominated culinary travel series starring acclaimed actor Stanley Tucci. Produced by SALT Productions and BBC Studios, the new season promises a richer, more intimate exploration of Italy’s diverse food culture, premiering across Africa on 13 May 2026.
The five-part series will air every Wednesday at 18:50 (CAT) on National Geographic (DStv Channel 181, StarTimes 220) and will also be available for streaming on Disney+ in South Africa.
A Deeper Journey into Italy’s Culinary Soul
Following the success of its debut season, Tucci in Italy returns with a renewed focus on the deep connections between food, history, and identity. Academy Award® nominee and Emmy®-winning actor Stanley Tucci once again immerses himself in Italy’s rich cultural tapestry—this time uncovering hidden culinary stories, regional rivalries, and lesser-known traditions.
“In Italy, food is never just food. It’s memory, identity and, sometimes, a full-blown argument. This season, we explore how the past continues to shape the present, one region and one extraordinary meal at a time.”
Tucci shares
Five Regions, Countless Stories
Season 2 takes viewers across five distinct Italian regions, each offering a unique perspective on the country’s gastronomic heritage:
- Naples and Campania: Tucci shares revisits the birthplace of iconic dishes while highlighting the revival of a once-forgotten vine grape.
- Sicily: A melting pot of cultures, where centuries of influence have created bold, layered flavours.
- Le Marche: A hidden gem along the Adriatic coast, rarely explored by international audiences, now revealed through its rich culinary traditions.
- Sardinia: An island where food is closely tied to longevity, offering insights into lifestyle and health.
- Veneto: The stage for one of Italy’s most delicious debates—the true origin of tiramisu.
From bustling cities to remote coastal regions, Tucci’s journey showcases how deeply food is woven into the fabric of Italian life.
More Than Food—A Cultural Experience
Beyond the plates, Tucci in Italy continues to highlight the human stories behind the cuisine. From local chefs and artisans to families preserving generations-old recipes, the series captures the essence of Italy through its people.
The ritual of shared meals takes centre stage, reinforcing the idea that food in Italy is not just sustenance—it’s a powerful expression of community, heritage, and identity.
Production Excellence
The series is a collaboration between SALT Productions and BBC Studios, with Stanley Tucci and Lottie Birmingham serving as executive producers for SALT. BBC Studios’ production team includes Amanda Lyon, Ben Jessop, and Alan Holland, while National Geographic’s team is led by executive producer Yari Lorenzo alongside senior leadership in global content and development.
How to Watch
Viewers across Africa can tune in to Tucci in Italy Season 2 on:
- DStv: Channel 181
- StarTimes: Channel 220 (DTH & DTT)
- Streaming: Disney+ South Africa
Premiere Date: Wednesday, 13 May 2026
Time: 18:50 (CAT)
With its blend of breathtaking landscapes, compelling storytelling, and mouthwatering cuisine, Tucci in Italy Season 2 is set to once again captivate audiences—proving that the heart of Italy is best understood through its food.
