Quick Info
An Idiot Abroad is a British travel documentary comedy series that debuted on Sky1 in 2010. The show stars Karl Pilkington, a lovably grumpy and vocal critic of travel, who is sent to various locations around the globe by his tormentors/friends Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant. The goal? To get Karl out of his comfort zone and expose him to different cultures, traditions, and challenges. Take note though, this is not your typical travel show, it's a comedy narrative told through the lens of an incredibly ordinary man in extraordinary circumstances.
In terms of standout moments, there are too many to count in An Idiot Abroad. It includes instances of Karl attempting to eat a toad in China; connect with a tribe in Africa; experience Rio Carnival; and climb Mount Fuji in Japan. All these trips are made funnier by Karl's extreme reluctance to partake in any of the proposed adventures; instead, he always prefers to stick to his simple, homebound lifestyle. However, this doesn't mean the show is devoid of touchingly human moments. In many instances, Karl reveals himself to be surprisingly open-minded, thoughtful, and kind despite his initial bewilderment.
On the flip side, there's certain repetition in An Idiot Abroad's format that could feel tiresome to some viewers. At times, the show may also seem cruel, with the creators seemingly enjoying tormenting their friend Karl. Nevertheless, it's a great watch for those seeking a unique take on travel shows and anyone who appreciates humor centered around the comedy of human discomfort.
