Comedian Joe Lycett is to replace Richard Ayoade as the Travel Man after the C4 show’s original presenter packs his bag for one last series. 

Richard’s final, ninth series, will air later this year. Joe picks up his passport for his debut series which will air in 2020.

Each episode takes a sideways look at how visitors might spend 48 hours in some of the world’s most popular mini-break destinations - and for each trip the Travel Man is joined by a well-known travel companion. Richard has previously explored over 40 cities including Copenhagen with Noel Fielding; Hong Kong with Mad Men actor Jon Hamm; Athens with Dawn French; Brussels with Lee Mack; Venice with Jo Brand; St Petersburg with Rob Beckett; and Florence with Hollywood actor Rebel Wilson.  Joe himself has even accompanied Richard on a weekend mini-break to Amsterdam.

Joe Lycett said: “I’m beyond excited to take over the brilliant, charming show that Richard has nurtured. I’m less excited about the number of times I’m going to have to take off my shoes at Birmingham Airport.”

Ian Dunkley, Commissioning Editor, Factual Entertainment added: “We’re delighted to welcome Joe onboard and to let him offer his own unique take on every whistle-stop, 48-hour mini-break we send him on.”

Travel Man is commissioned by Ian Dunkley, Commissioning Editor Factual Entertainment, Channel 4 and Executive Produced by Steve Gowans, Series Producer Chris Richards, Producer/Director Nicola Silk, North One Television.