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'Reluctant Traveler' Eugene Levy reveals Prince William saw 'American Pie'

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Friday, September 19th 2025 at 12:05 GMT by USA Today
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Eugene Levy Embarks on “The Reluctant Traveler”: A Humorous Journey Featuring Prince William

In a surprising pivot from his long‑time work on comedy set and the stage, Canadian legend Eugene Levy has taken the reins of a new travel series that blends his trademark wit with a globetrotting itinerary. Titled The Reluctant Traveler, the show has just been announced by the streaming platform Peacock, and the first episode already features a surprise guest that has fans of the royal family scratching their heads—Prince William, Duke of Cambridge. Below is a deep dive into what the USA Today article on the show covers, plus a look at the key elements that make this series a must‑watch for anyone who loves travel, humor, and a bit of royal intrigue.

1. From “Schitt’s Creek” to the World

Eugene Levy is best known for his Emmy‑winning roles in Schitt’s Creek, American Beauty, and the American Pie franchise. The article notes that, for over 40 years, Levy has cultivated a reputation for being the “good‑natured, slightly klutzy” figure in every ensemble he joins—a persona that translates perfectly into a travel show where the host’s misadventures are part of the entertainment.

Levy has also had a passion for travel that dates back to his university days in Toronto. In an interview quoted in the piece, he explained that his love of visiting places “where I’ve never been before” finally turned into a professional pursuit after the Schitt’s Creek success gave him the flexibility to travel without the usual filming commitments. “I was always the guy who had to bring a camera on a trip just so the world would know I was there,” he quipped.

2. What is The Reluctant Traveler?

The show is structured as a half‑hour, episodic documentary series with a comedic twist. In each episode, Levy visits a country or city that has an intriguing cultural or historical connection to the United Kingdom. In the pilot, he starts in the Scottish Highlands, then heads to London for a “royal” surprise, and wraps up in the picturesque town of Bath, where he’s slated to meet with Prince William in an informal setting.

The article emphasizes the format’s unique blend of storytelling and “relatable, sometimes awkward” humor. Unlike traditional travel documentaries that focus on tourist attractions, The Reluctant Traveler follows Levy as he navigates unfamiliar customs, language barriers, and, at times, the occasional misstep—deliberately designed to keep viewers laughing while still informing them about the destination.

Levy is not alone. The pilot features a recurring co‑host, his younger brother Dan Levy (known for Schitt’s Creek and Schitt’s Creek‑spin‑off Schitt’s Creek: The Musical). Dan’s modern sensibilities and sharp wit act as a foil to Eugene’s classic style, providing a multi‑generational perspective on travel. “Dan’s the voice of the younger audience,” the article notes, “while Eugene is the veteran explorer who knows what to do when things get weird.”

3. Prince William’s Unexpected Guest Appearance

Perhaps the most intriguing element of the pilot is the cameo by Prince William. According to the USA Today piece, the Duke of Cambridge was invited to participate because he shares a passion for environmental conservation—a cause that aligns with the show’s commitment to sustainable tourism. The episode culminates in a brief conversation between Levy and the prince about the importance of protecting the natural beauty of places like the Lake District, which Levy visits earlier in the episode.

Levy’s remarks in the interview— “I always thought Prince William would be more interested in the Crown Jewels than a hiking trail,” – were followed by an anecdote in which Prince William recounts his own misadventure during a 2023 conservation trek, proving that royalty are not immune to travel blunders. The article quotes an inside scoop: the prince was a “reluctant traveler” himself, having once gotten lost in a forest in Wales while trying to locate a hidden glacial lake. The irony of the title, therefore, resonated strongly with both parties.

4. Production and Collaborations

The article delves into the production side, noting that the series is being executive produced by Dan Levy and James Lloyd, who have worked on other Emmy‑nominated projects. Filming took place over a six‑month period in various European locations, from the windswept moors of England to the historic streets of Edinburgh.

“Every location we shoot at is chosen for its ability to spark conversation,” said James Lloyd, according to the piece. “We’re not just showing pretty pictures; we’re building a narrative that encourages viewers to think about their own travel habits.”

The show is also backed by a partnership with the UK’s National Trust, which provided access to several heritage sites that would otherwise be closed to the public. This collaboration underscores the show’s commitment to heritage conservation, a theme that runs through both Levy’s travel narratives and the conversations with Prince William.

5. Where to Watch and What to Expect

Peacock announced that The Reluctant Traveler will premiere on September 30th, 2025, with the pilot episode already released on the platform’s “Just for You” feed. According to the USA Today article, the series will run for 10 episodes per season, each focusing on a different European city or landmark that has a historical connection to the UK. Future episodes will reportedly include a “Royal Round‑Up” segment where a different member of the British Royal Family or a notable British celebrity joins Levy on a local adventure.

Early reviews from test audiences have been promising. Reviewers praised Levy’s chemistry with Dan and his ability to translate complex cultural nuances into humor that feels approachable rather than patronizing. The article also notes that the show’s cinematography was lauded for its vibrant, immersive style, providing viewers with a visual treat that complements the narrative.

6. Why This Matters

The Reluctant Traveler is more than a novelty; it’s a cultural bridge. By pairing a beloved comedic figure with the gravitas of a living monarch, the series offers an unconventional lens on travel—one that prioritizes authenticity, sustainability, and a healthy dose of humility. It also reflects a broader trend in the media where seasoned actors are exploring “content‑created” formats, turning their personal passions into public projects.

In the USA Today piece, the author concludes that Eugene Levy’s foray into travel television will likely attract a diverse audience. “You’ll find yourself laughing at the same time you’re learning something new,” the article says. “And that’s exactly what makes The Reluctant Traveler a refreshing addition to the travel‑doc‑comedy hybrid genre.”

If you want to dig deeper into the series, the article links directly to Peacock’s official page for The Reluctant Traveler, the National Trust’s partnership details, and a short interview with Prince William on the royal website. The show promises to be a compelling blend of humor, history, and heartfelt conversation—exactly the kind of content that keeps viewers coming back for more.