Ferne McCann reveals why she's joined Pilgrimage

Ferne McCann and Leigh Francis have joined the cast of Pilgrimage.

SHARE

SHARE

The cast of Pilgrimage
The cast of Pilgrimage

Ferne McCann believes she's following "God's plan" by appearing on Pilgrimage.

The 36-year-old TV star has embarked on an ancient route for the ninth series of Pilgrimage, and Ferne has explained what convinced her to join the BBC show.

The reality TV star - who is a Christian - told the BBC: "I’m doing the pilgrimage because I believe this is God's plan for me and I want to deepen my faith as a Christian."

Comedy star Leigh Francis is also appearing in the new series, and he's revealed why he's joined the programme.

Leigh 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!"

The other celebrity contestants include Janet Ellis, Shabaz Ali, Jay Foreman, Mhairi Black, and Nina Wadia.

Daisy Scalchi, the BBC’s head of religion and ethics for television, has hailed the new cast as "brilliant".

She said: "Pilgrimage has built a community of loyal viewers over the years, who come to hear some of life’s biggest questions explored through a variety of perspectives, with a spirit of curiosity and open-heartedness.

"This year’s brilliant cast, and the stunning locations they’re walking through, guarantee to deliver another wonderful series for spring 2027."

Caroline Matthews, the executive producer and CEO of CTVC, the production company behind Pilgrimage, is also excited to see the new series of the TV show.

Caroline is expecting to "laugh, cry and learn" with this year's cast.

She said: "At its heart, Pilgrimage is about so much more than the journey, it’s about asking big questions, confronting what we believe and discovering the things that connect us. This year’s cast is incredible and I can’t wait to laugh, cry and learn about what makes them tick!"