Actor Richard E. Grant is embarking on a four-part Mediterranean travel series inspired by Homer’s epic poem, The Odyssey. The series coincides with the recent release of Christopher Nolan’s film adaptation of the classic tale and explores locations linked to the legendary journey of Odysseus as he attempts to return home following the Trojan War.

Grant’s journey begins on the Maltese island of Gozo, where he visits a cave overlooking the sea that some archaeologists propose as the mythical Calypso’s cave, the place where Odysseus was held captive by the nymph Calypso for seven years according to the poem. Grant acknowledges the speculative nature of the claim, noting the story’s open interpretation and the imaginative role such sites play in connecting with Homer’s narrative.

The actor, known for his role in Withnail and I, expresses enthusiasm for Homer’s story, describing it as a “riveting yarn” that captivated him from his teenage years. Yet, much of the initial episode focuses less on direct ties to the Odyssey and more on the cultural richness and scenic allure of Malta. A highlight of Grant’s visit to the capital city Valletta is St John’s Co-Cathedral, where he praises the interior’s elaborate baroque design.

Subsequent episodes of the series will see Grant visiting the historically significant site of Troy in northwestern Turkey, followed by explorations of Sicily, Tunisia, Corfu, and the island of Ithaca, traditionally considered Odysseus’s homeland. Throughout, Grant serves as an engaging guide, blending historical context with personal reflection.

While the series inevitably carries elements common to celebrity travelogues, Grant’s genuine interest in the subject matter and approachable presentation style offer viewers an accessible way to connect with one of literature’s oldest and most enduring tales.