A New Reality TV Show Fails to Live Up to Expectations
BBC has launched a new reality TV show called Destination X, which was initially described as “The Traitors meets Race Across The World.” This comparison set high expectations, especially for those who enjoyed both shows. However, after watching the first two episodes, it’s clear that the show hasn’t lived up to its potential.
Hosted by Rob Brydon, Destination X starts with 13 strangers meeting at an airport before boarding a claustrophobic coach with opaque windows and no idea where they’re headed. The contestants must rely on clues to figure out their location in Europe, while also sifting through red herrings. At the end of each episode, players attempt to pinpoint their location on a map, with the one farthest from the correct spot being eliminated. The final destination remains unknown until the end.
When I first heard about Destination X, I believed it would be one of the standout moments in television for 2025. It had all the elements that could make it a hit: a unique concept, a strong host, and the potential for exciting travel experiences. But after watching the first episode, my excitement quickly faded.
The game, which sounded simple on paper, turned out to be confusing and muddled. The clues were hard to distinguish from the red herrings, and the spectacular landscapes that usually add to the appeal of travel-based shows were intentionally hidden. This made the viewing experience feel more like a chore than an adventure.
However, the real issue lies not with the game itself but with the cast. The contestants are, in a word, fine. They’re likable people, but they lack the charisma and personality that make reality TV truly engaging. This is a problem because, in reality television, casting plays a crucial role in determining a show’s success.
A great format can only take a show so far. What keeps viewers invested is the characters. The second series of The Traitors was unmissable because of its winner, Harry Clark, whose talent for deception was so impressive that it felt almost supernatural. But even he wouldn’t have been as compelling without the likes of Linda Rand, whose genuine mistakes and emotional reactions made her a fan favorite.
If you required a qualified dancer to compete on Strictly, the show might be more spectacular—but it definitely wouldn’t be as fun. Reality television thrives on unpredictability, and that comes from the people on screen, not their physical or professional abilities.
There is, however, one standout character on Destination X: London cabbie Daren. He wants to use the £100,000 prize money to buy his wife, Jackie P, a new kitchen. Despite his knowledge of London’s streets, he’s one of the weakest players in the game. While he hasn’t done anything particularly memorable yet—like Alison Hammond breaking a garden table or Peter Marsh throwing a tantrum—he is the only character worth rooting for.
Thankfully, this issue can be easily fixed if Destination X is commissioned for another series. Instead of selecting players based on their skills or achievements, the show should focus on personalities. After all, reality television is at its best when it showcases how extraordinary ordinary people can be.
Diane Carson, for example, was just like many people you might meet at a pub or on a train. But her natural, high-camp energy made her a star. Destination X needs someone like Diane if it ever hopes to capture the attention it deserves.
For now, the show airs on Wednesdays and Thursdays on BBC One. If you’re enjoying it, share your thoughts in the comments below.