Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1546170
8 gozotoday | FRIDAY • 14 AUGUST 2026 CULTURE THE Maltese Islands have tak- en centre stage in the opening episode of Richard E. Grant's Very Modern Odyssey, a new four-part travel series inspired by Homer's The Odyssey, bring- ing Malta's rich history, culture, gastronomy and landscapes to international audiences. The first episode aired on Sun- day, 2nd August 2026, in the United Kingdom on Channel 4, Canada on CBC and Australia on SBS, with the Maltese Islands featuring prominently through- out the programme. The series follows acclaimed actor and broadcaster Richard E. Grant as he explores locations connected to the epic journey of Odysseus, combining history, culture, food and contemporary experiences. The Malta Tourism Author- ity's Digital Unit, through its Film Tourism and History work, coordinated the Malta episode with the programme's produc- ers, helping facilitate the pro- duction and ensuring that the Islands' historical and cultural assets were an integral part of the programme. The episode begins in Malta's Grand Harbour before taking viewers through Valletta and its extraordinary heritage, in- cluding St John's Co-Cathedral, whilst also featuring experienc- es in Gozo. Malta's gastrono- my, architecture, history and Mediterranean character are a central part of Grant's journey, offering international viewers an engaging perspective on the Islands. The production has also re- ceived positive international media attention. In a review of the opening episode, The Guardian described Very Mod- ern Odyssey as a "real success of a show", highlighting Grant's evident fascination with Malta and his experiences in Valletta and Gozo. Read The Guardian's review of Richard E. Grant's Very Modern Odyssey Malta Tourism Authority CEO Carlo Micallef said: "This collaboration gives the Maltese Islands an important platform to reach discerning international travellers through an engaging and authentic sto- ry. By showcasing our history, culture, gastronomy and unique character, the programme demonstrates that Malta offers the depth of experience increas- ingly sought by quality-con- scious visitors that MTA's mar- keting and PR are specifically targeting in its international promotion of the Maltese Is- lands" Malta Tourism Authority Chairman Dr Charles Mangion continued: "Having the Maltese Islands feature so prominently in the opening episode of Very Mod- ern Odyssey strengthens our international visibility among audiences who value culture, history and authentic experi- ences. This is the type of expo- sure that supports our ambi- tion to attract quality tourism throughout the year." Malta Tourism Authority Di- rector of International Market- ing, Mr Arthur Grima, added: "Richard E. Grant brings genu- ine curiosity and enthusiasm to his journey, allowing audiences to discover the Maltese Islands through a highly engaging lens. Featuring Malta at the very be- ginning of this international journey provides valuable ex- posure to travellers looking for distinctive cultural and histori- cal experiences." The Malta Tourism Authority said that collaborations such as this form part of its wider in- ternational marketing strategy, using high-quality television and digital productions to in- troduce the Maltese Islands to new audiences and strengthen their appeal across key tourism segments. The opening episode offers viewers a glimpse of the Islands' heritage, gastronomy and land- scapes whilst positioning our is- lands within the wider Mediter- ranean story that has inspired generations. Malta and Gozo take centre stage in Richard E. Grant's Very Modern Odyssey travel series Richard E. Grant The first episode aired on Sunday, 2nd August 2026, in the United Kingdom on Channel 4, Canada on CBC and Australia on SBS, with the Maltese Islands featuring prominently throughout the programme