Comedian Leigh Francis and Mhairi Black are two of the seven celebrities with differing faiths and beliefs taking part in the new series of Pilgrimage, coming to BBC Two and iPlayer next year.
Where the pilgrims are heading is being kept a closely guarded secret for now, with more details to be revealed nearer transmission.
The full line-up is broadcaster and author Janet Ellis, who identifies as a Humanist; TV personality Ferne McCann, a Christian; content creator and comedian Shabaz Ali, a practising Muslim; YouTuber Jay Foreman, who was brought up in the Jewish faith; comedian and former politician Mhairi Black, who was raised Catholic; actor Nina Wadia, a practising Zoroastrian; and comedian and artist Leigh Francis, doesn’t identify with any particular faith.
Revealing their thoughts on why they wanted to take part in this pilgrimage, the celebrities commented:
Janet Ellis (71), West London: “I’d like to step outside of my busy life and have time to bring myself into focus. I want to explore the whole of the pilgrim path rather than keep my world comfortably small."
Ferne McCann (36), ‘Born and Bred’ Essex: “I’m doing the pilgrimage because I believe this is God's plan for me and I want to deepen my faith as a Christian."
Mhairi Black (32), Glasgow: “I’m really excited to explore places I’ve never been, with people I’ve never met. Not so excited about finding out whether I am as fit as I claim to be.”
Shabaz Ali (34), Blackburn: “To get a better understanding of my own faith through other peoples’ journeys - either through their faith or lack of it."
Nina Wadia (57), born in Bombay, now lives in London: “Pilgrimage came for me and I take that as a sign to see and experience things I wouldn’t normally do. This is so needed for my soul right now."
Jay Foreman (41), North London: “How better to have these conversations done with a bunch of complete strangers in the beautiful countryside?"
Leigh Francis (53), born near Leeds, now lives in London: “Since I turned 50 I started saying yes to more things. Three years in, I’m still not sure about the things I’m saying yes to. But it’s an adventure and that’s what life’s about! I’m wandering somewhere outdoors, the sun is out and so are my ginger knees. Looking forward to it!”
Daisy Scalchi, BBC’s Head of Religion and Ethics for television, says: “Pilgrimage has built a community of loyal viewers over the years, who come to hear some of life’s biggest questions explored through a variety of perspectives, with a spirit of curiosity and open-heartedness. This year’s brilliant cast, and the stunning locations they’re walking through, guarantee to deliver another wonderful series for Spring 2027.”
Caroline Matthews, Executive Producer and CEO, CTVC, says: “At its heart, Pilgrimage is about so much more than the journey, it’s about asking big questions, confronting what we believe and discovering the things that connect us. This year’s cast is incredible and I can’t wait to laugh, cry and learn about what makes them tick!”
(Image: CTVC)
