CNN’s new documentary series: A fresh take on travelogues

A new chapter in CNN’s documentary journey

Since the groundbreaking launch of “Parts Unknown” in 2013, CNN has captivated audiences with its unique travel documentaries. These series, led by charismatic hosts like Anthony Bourdain, Lisa Ling, and W. Kamau Bell, have taken viewers on immersive journeys through diverse cultures and regions. Now, CNN is set to innovate once again with a fresh format that promises to bring joy and discovery to its audience.

Introducing “My Happy Place”

In 2025, CNN will debut “My Happy Place”, a new series that will feature multiple hosts, each guiding viewers to a location that holds personal significance to them. This innovative approach will allow the series to explore a variety of destinations through the unique perspectives of its hosts. The show is produced in collaboration with Boardwalk Pictures, a studio renowned for its non-fiction programming on platforms like Hulu and Netflix.

A diverse lineup of hosts

The roster of hosts for “My Happy Place” includes a mix of celebrated personalities from different fields:

Alan Cumming
Taraji P. Henson
Simu Liu
Billy Porter
Octavia Spencer
Questlove

Each episode will delve into a place that brings joy to these hosts, offering viewers an intimate look at locations that have shaped their lives and careers.

The essence of “My Happy Place”

Amy Entelis, CNN’s executive vice president of talent, CNN Originals, and creative development, emphasized the network’s commitment to premium, host-led travel programming. She described “My Happy Place” as a fresh take on the genre, with iconic personalities guiding viewers on revealing journeys. This format shift means the true star of the show is the concept itself, rather than any single host.

Cost-effective and flexible

By using multiple hosts, CNN can maintain the series’ appeal without the financial burden of retaining a central star. This flexibility could make it easier to renew the series for multiple seasons, ensuring a steady stream of engaging content for viewers.

Exploring Spain with Eva Longoria

In addition to “My Happy Place,” CNN plans to launch another travelogue series led by Eva Longoria. This series will see the actor and producer exploring the rich cultural tapestry of Spain, offering viewers a deep dive into the country’s history, cuisine, and traditions.

Behind the scenes

The executive production team for “My Happy Place” includes:

Andrew Fried, Jamie Granet Bederman, Sarina Roma, and Jane Yusim for Boardwalk Pictures
Amy Entelis, Lyle Gamm, and Katie Hinman for CNN Original Series
Alexandra Lowry as the showrunner and executive producer

Andrew Fried, founder and CEO of Boardwalk Pictures, highlighted the series’ goal to showcase incredible destinations and uncover what makes them uniquely special.

Personal reflections for enthusiasts

For cinema, TV series, and music enthusiasts, “My Happy Place” offers a unique blend of personal storytelling and travel exploration. Each episode promises to be a deeply personal journey, revealing the emotional connections that these hosts have with their chosen destinations. This format not only enriches the viewing experience but also provides a fresh perspective on familiar and unfamiliar places alike.

In-depth analysis and distinctive comments

The decision to feature multiple hosts allows for a diverse range of narratives and experiences, making each episode distinct and engaging. This approach also opens up opportunities for in-depth analysis of how different personalities connect with their environments. For instance, Alan Cumming’s episode might explore the artistic and cultural influences of his chosen location, while Questlove’s episode could delve into the musical heritage of his happy place.

Enriching the content with additional details

To further enrich the content, viewers can explore trailers and additional information about the hosts and their chosen destinations. For example, you can watch the trailer for “Parts Unknown” here and learn more about the series that set the stage for CNN’s travel documentaries.

Similarly, for music enthusiasts, exploring Questlove’s musical journey can be enhanced by listening to his curated playlists on Spotify. Check out his latest selections here.

A new era of travel documentaries

“My Happy Place” represents a new era of travel documentaries, where personal stories and diverse perspectives take center stage. By blending the joy of discovery with intimate storytelling, CNN continues to push the boundaries of non-fiction programming, offering viewers a unique and enriching experience.

As we look forward to the premiere of “My Happy Place” and Eva Longoria’s exploration of Spain, it’s clear that CNN remains committed to delivering high-quality, engaging content that resonates with audiences around the world.