Andrew Zimmern Headlines Travel Channel’s 2017 Lineup

NEW YORK: Travel Channel has commissioned more than 390 new hours of programming for 2017, including another show from Andrew Zimmern (Bizzare Foods).

The Zimmern List (working title) will take viewers to a new city where the culinary traveler will reveal his favorite eateries and dishes. Travel Channel’s schedule will feature several freshman series and more than 18 pilots. Some of the pilots will feature social media star Ricky Smith, Irish comedian Kevin McGahern, and pilot, adventurer and travel writer Kellee Edwards. Additionally, Scripps Lifestyle Studios, the network’s mobile resource, will offer new digital video series, photo galleries, articles, blog posts, quizzes, tips and insider information.

Adventurer and explorer Josh Gates (Expedition Unknown) returns to Travel Channel this October in Expedition Unknown: Hunt For ExtraTerrestrials, an investigative journey to four continents. Gates also will host Legend Has It (working title), a new show that uncovers the experiences modern travelers will have when they visit ancient global hotspots.

The channel has also greenlit Caribbean Pirate Treasure. The show will see Philippe Cousteau, the grandson of legendary explorer Jacques Cousteau, and his journalist wife, Ashlan, explore the world’s most beautiful waters and uncover unknown stories. Mysteries at the Museum, another highlight of the 2017 lineup, will see history explorer Don Wildman looking for answers in new specials suited for family viewing.

In addition, Booze Traveler: Best Bars follows Jack Maxwell (Booze Traveler) on a mission to find the best bars and drinks for any occasion in cities throughout the U.S., including Chicago, Maui, Hawaii and San Francisco. The Dive In franchise will also return to the lineup this year, and in October, the channel will run a Halloween-themed programming block “Scarecation,” featuring spooky travel destinations. Travel Channel will close the year by expanding its “Chillcation” programming event to two weeks of content showcasing popular shows and talent.

“Travel Channel’s 11-percent year-over-year prime-time ratings growth is a strong indicator that the programming themes we’re developing appeal to the target audience,” said Kathleen Finch, chief programming, content and brand officer for HGTV, DIY Network, Food Network, Cooking Channel, Travel Channel and Great American Country. “Our emphasis on smart scheduling strategy and super-serving viewers with content featuring the hosts they love paid off with significant ratings increases across the board.

“For many of us, what to eat, where to drink and how to find the inside scoop on secret spots to explore are a big part of the travel experience. Our 2017 programming slate reflects the diverse interests of the audience and is a big reason that we expect to continue this positive ratings trajectory.”