Steve Coogan has confirmed the production of the fifth season of the beloved sitcom 'The Trip,' following revelations made during his recent court proceedings. The well-known comedian and actor, recognized for his role as Alan Partridge, found himself at the center of media attention after pleading his case to avoid a lengthy driving ban due to speeding.
On July 29, 2024, Coogan was caught driving at 97 miles per hour on the M6 near Telford, significantly above the 70 mph speed limit. Already burdened with six penalty points on his driving license, the stakes were high as he faced the prospect of being banned from driving for six months—a situation he argued would directly impact his work commitments.
During the court session, documented by The Evening Standard, Coogan submitted a letter to Birmingham Magistrates Court pleading for leniency, pointing out the necessity of his ability to drive for his television commitments. He stated, “I have a series of important film commitments scheduled for 2025, many of which involve driving as a central component of the work.”
These commitments include filming for the latest season of 'The Trip,' where Coogan stars alongside fellow comedian Rob Brydon. The new series is set to begin production at the end of June 2025, tapping back onto the road trips format the series is known for, as they traverse through culinary landscapes and engage with various local cultures.
Coogan's plea was particularly compelling as he emphasized not just the impact on his own career, but the longer-reaching consequences for the production crew. He continued, “These projects would be severely impacted, not only affecting my own livelihood but also the many individuals dependent on these productions for work.”
His message conveyed the significant stakes involved—not only his own career but the potential layoffs or financial difficulties faced by camera, sound, and lighting technicians who rely on such productions. He succinctly pointed out the complex nature of rescheduling film projects, urging the court to understand the broader ramifications of their decision.
Initially facing serious consequences, the judges granted Coogan's request for five penalty points instead of six, meaning he avoided the six-month disqualification. He was ordered to pay fines totaling £2,500, adding to the costs associated with other penalties.
'The Trip' originally debuted on the BBC back in 2010 and quickly gained popularity, leading to three subsequent seasons and multiple feature films. It is directed by Michael Winterbottom, who has successfully turned the comedic exploits of Coogan and Brydon—essentially fictional versions of themselves—into both critically acclaimed and audience-favorite endeavors across various stunning locales, including the UK, Italy, Spain, and Greece.
While the last installment, 'The Trip to Greece,' was suggested to be the series’ finale, both Coogan and Brydon have previously expressed interest in continuing their culinary escapades. Coogan indicated on Brydon's podcast earlier this year, “I think there will be more stuff to say, because middle age is different to just getting old,” hinting at the comedic potential of their continued adventures.
Locations for the upcoming season remain unconfirmed, though Wales, Ireland, and even America have been floated as possibilities. Fans of the series are eager to see how the iconic duo adapt to new environments, all the more poignant as they address issues of life and aging with their trademark wit.
Despite the bumps along the road—quite literally—Coogan's ability to continue driving not only ensures the show's future but also reflects his passion for the work he does. With their energetic banter and riotous road trip format, the new season of 'The Trip' promises to be yet another delightful feast for viewers.
With the stakes raised, both for themselves and their crews, audiences are left wondering where the winding roads of 'The Trip' will take them next. Whether to the picturesque coasts of Wales, the lush Irish countryside, or scenic American routes, one thing is certain: Coogan and Brydon’s culinary journeys have only just begun.