Brief
Rob Brydon admits he first resisted playing himself in new Trip series
The comedian explains why he changed his mind ahead of the fifth series premiere at the BFI London Film Festival.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Rob Brydon told the Press Association that he and co‑star Steve Coogan were initially against playing fictionalised versions of themselves when director Michael Winterbottom proposed the idea for the fifth series of The Trip. He said the pair thought the concept was "a bit passe" but later recognised it made the show more intriguing for viewers.
Speaking ahead of the series' debut at the BFI London Film Festival, Brydon explained that the exaggerated characters are built by "exaggerating the truth until it becomes funny" and that the approach adds a layer of curiosity about how much of the on‑screen persona reflects reality.
He added that the programme’s comedic mimicry, such as impersonating Michael Caine or Al Pacino, remains light‑hearted and never turns combative during meals. Brydon noted that while some moments feel close to their real selves, the creators deliberately tweak traits for humor.
The latest instalment, titled The Trip To The Northern Lights, follows the duo through Scandinavia, from Swedish hotels to remote Norwegian fishing huts, as they chase the aurora borealis. Brydon described the filming conditions as cold in the Arctic Circle but praised the striking fjord scenery and clear skies, attributing the good weather to "this whole climate change thing".
A release date for the new series has not yet been announced.
Key facts
- Rob Brydon initially opposed playing a fictionalised version of himself in The Trip. (standard.co.uk)
- He now believes the exaggerated self‑portrayal makes the show more curious for viewers. (standard.co.uk)
- The fifth series, titled The Trip To The Northern Lights, is set in Scandinavia. (standard.co.uk)
- Brydon described filming in the Arctic Circle as cold but praised the scenery and weather. (standard.co.uk)
Sources
- [1] standard.co.uk — originally reported as “Rob Brydon originally opposed playing fictional version of himself in The Trip”
