'This is so needed for my soul right now.'

Comedians Shabaz Ali, Jay Foreman, Mhairi Black and Leigh Francis are taking part in the next series of the BBC’s Pilgrimage.

It has not yet been revealed which ancient pilgrim route they will follow for the ninth series of the show, which will air on BBC Two and iPlayer in the spring.

Joining them on the journey – in which participants discuss their religious faith and spirituality –  will be broadcasters Janet Ellis, a humanist;  Ferne McCann, a Christian and actor Nina Wadia, a practising Zoroastrian.

Former politician Black, 32, who was raised Catholic in Glasgow, said: ‘I’m really excited to explore places I’ve never been, with people I’ve never met. Not so excited about finding out whether I am as fit as I claim to be.'

Content creator and practising Muslim, Ali, 34 and from Blackburn, said he was embarking on the trek, ‘to get a better understanding of my own faith through other people’s journeys - either through their faith or lack of it’.

Foreman, 41, and probably best known for his YouTube videos, was brought up Jewish in North London. He said: ‘How better to have these conversations done with a bunch of complete strangers in the beautiful countryside?’

Keith Lemon creator Francis, 53, was born near Leeds, and now lives in London. He said: ‘Since I turned 50, I started saying yes to more things. Three years in, I’m still not sure about the things I’m saying yes to. But it’s an adventure, and that’s what life’s about! I’m wandering somewhere outdoors, the sun is out and so are my ginger knees. Looking forward to it!’

Former Goodness Gracious Me star Wadia, 57, born in Bombay but now living in London, added: ‘Pilgrimage came for me and I take that as a sign to see and experience things I wouldn’t normally do. This is so needed for my soul right now.'

Published: 1 Oct 2026