Reality AF: Tucci Feasts, Wrexham Scores, and Conan Goofs—May’s Unscripted Lineup Takes You Around the World
Tucci photo by Matt Holyoak, courtesy of National Geographic. Conan O'Brien photos courtesy of Max.
Ready for a getaway? Of course you are. It’s May, which means summer is right around the corner, and you’re probably itching to break out of your routine and explore. The days are getting warmer, students are nearly on break, and prime travel season is almost here. It’s an exciting time of year—for you and reality TV.
Sure, a local museum or nearby water park can be a great way to spend a summer day. Maybe you’ve even got a domestic trip planned, like my upcoming getaway to Niagara Falls. But why not dream a little bigger? Picture yourself savoring pine needle pesto in Italy, cheering on a football match in Wales, or joining a record-breaking haka dance in New Zealand. Now that’s a summer story.
If an overseas adventure isn’t in the budget, don’t worry, you can still soak up international vibes from your own couch. Three unscripted series hitting screens this month—Conan O’Brien Must Go, Welcome to Wrexham, and Tucci in Italy—offer a passport to global experiences, no travel required.
Here’s everything you need to know about these globe-trotting shows that let you live vicariously all summer long.
Conan O’Brien Must Go
Season: 2
Premiere Date: May 8
Available on: Max
What You Should Watch: If Rick Steves is the dad-like travel expert who makes sure you’re always prepared, whether you’re navigating the labyrinthine streets of Paris or savoring every local dish, then Conan O’Brien is the guy who forgets his map, eats everything he probably shouldn’t, and somehow ends up dancing with the bride at a local wedding. When I need practical travel advice, Rick’s my guy. But if I want to be entertained, Conan’s reality TV show is the ultimate vacation adventure just waiting to happen.
In season one, Conan took us on a whirlwind journey through Norway, Argentina, Thailand, and Ireland. In a short second season, he visits Spain, New Zealand, and Austria. If you loved season one, you’re in for more of the same delightful chaos in season two. Expect to see Conan’s sidekick, producer Jordan Schlansky, continuing his role as the world’s worst travel companion. Watch Conan strut around the Austrian mountains in lederhosen, spinning with all the grace of Julie Andrews in The Sound of Music. And, of course, there’s no shortage of Conan’s trademark self-deprecating humor.
As much as I love Rick Steves, I seriously doubt he’d ever don the traditional uniform and embarrass himself while singing with the Vienna Boys’ Choir or join Taika Waititi and 6,000 others to perform the haka. But that’s exactly why we tune in. Conan’s brand of cringey, hilarious fun is unmatched.
Welcome to Wrexham
Season: 4
Premiere Date: May 15
Available on: FX, streaming next day on Hulu