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Although the Euro-hopping reality competition Destination X might not have been the seasonal hit the broadcaster were hoping for, it did give presenter Brydon a lovely glow-up. The convoluted coach trip clearly wanted to project a jet-setting vibe, so the show's host got dressed with premium suits: vibrant three-piece suits, smooth neckwear and yacht-ready blazers. Unexpectedly, he acquired the debonair look to match his classic Roger Moore impression.

Costume Changes and Country Music

His latest trilogy of episodes, Rob Brydon's Honky Tonk Road Trip, includes themed outfit costume changes. The genial Welshman goes full western rancher in a parade plaid tops, rugged jackets and sometimes a Stetson hat. It's all part the concept that sees him driving a massive Ford Ranger pickup truck on a 2,000-mile circuit through southern states for a crash course in country music.

His mission involves celebrating the hundredth anniversary of the genre – or at least the 100th anniversary of the legendary broadcast which became the Grand Ole Opry, foundation and star-maker in the industry over decades – through the classic star-led journey tradition of road tripping, chatting with residents and immersing himself with traditions. This anniversary has coincided with country becoming, he claims, “the most rapidly expanding music style in Britain” – due to Taylor Swift and recent countrified albums from multiple artists, Post Malone and others – provides additional perspective for examination.

Travel History With Insecurities

We know Brydon is up for long drives and conversations thanks to multiple seasons of his travel series alongside his comedy partner. But at first he appears uncertain if he is truly qualified as a presenter. Watching him confide to a dashboard-mounted camera evokes beta male memories of a character, the melancholy driver from Brydon's TV breakthrough, a beloved series. Traveling toward Nashville, he calls his sitcom co-star Ruth Jones to boost his confidence. She recalls that he has authentic music credentials: a past charity single of a classic duet topped the charts. (“The original artists reached seventh place!” she points out.)

Conversational Talents With Local Engagement

If the “full sensory overload” of a night out in Nashville is a little too much for the host – trying to dance with the UK actor now musician Twinnie sees him tap out early in a popular tune – the veteran comedian is far less wobbly legged in the interview segments. His polite lines of questioning seem to gel local etiquette, gathering Johnny Cash stories and general musings on the spirit of the genre from silvery-haired veterans like the institution's mainstay a renowned figure and nonagenarian tailor-to-the-stars Manuel Cuevas. His gentle manner also works with younger guns, like the bearded chart-topping singer and the instrumental virtuoso a talented musician.

While some of the stories feel well worn, the opening episode includes at least one unexpected moment. What on earth is the pop star doing hanging out in a homely east Nashville studio? Reportedly, he's been coming to Tennessee to hone his songwriting since the 1990s, and points to a country icon as inspiration for his band's enduring hit a classic song. Here, at last, we meet a guest he can tease, joke with and playfully provoke without fear of causing any offense. (Barlow, bless him, participates willingly.)

Broader Implications and Unscripted Moments

With an entire century of the genre to contextualise and honor, it is understandable that this southern-fried tour across two states (with pit stops to other areas to come) aims to concentrate on the art and without needing to address the current political moment. But it cannot help includes some elements. During an appearance on the polished program of the Nashville radio station WSM – proud founder of the Grand Ole Opry – Brydon jokingly wonders whether the nations are still friends, disrupting the polished presenters from their rhythm. We do not get the likely presumably icy aftermath.

A Natural Fit in This Role

But for all his visible insecurity, Brydon is clearly well-suited for this type of breezy, bite-size format: amiable, engaged, modest and prepared for costume changes, although he has difficulty to find an elaborate western top that comes in a medium. Should Coogan be concerned that his wingman is capable of solo hosting alone? Definitely.