Route 66: America's Greatest Road Trip
Journalist and broadcaster Sean Fletcher explores the iconic Route 66 on its 100th anniversary, connecting with his American roots. Over eight episodes, he's joined by famous figures who share how the highway influenced their lives, and he meets local characters working to preserve its legacy. The series is produced by Telegraph Media Group and sponsored by Visit The USA.
Episodes
Phoebe Schecter: All-action avenue
We’re nearly at the end of our journey along Route 66, but we certainly won’t be taking it easy. Joining Sean in this episode is Phoebe Schecter, an American football expert and the NFL’s first female British coach. They’ll be exploring the highway’s final state, California, and all of the sporting opportunities it has to offer.They are joined by Adam Duford of Santa Monica Surf Tours, who gives t
Sinitta: Freeway of freedom
Route 66 has long been a deeply ingrained aspect of American culture, and in this episode, Sean is joined by pop star Sinitta to explore how the road has become a symbol of the country’s identity and hope.They chat to friend of the podcast Jim Hinckley, who gives them an insight into how the highway became an American icon. They then pay a visit to Ohio, where they chat to fine art photographer an
Zoey Goto: Cars, creativity and canvas
Route 66 is lined with some of the world’s most unmistakable artwork, and over the highway’s 100 year history, it has acted like a huge living canvas for American art. In this episode, Sean is joined by fashion, lifestyle and travel journalist and author Zoey Goto to explore the route’s striking visual identity, from glowing neon motel signs to giant roadside sculptures to folk art.They chat to sc
Ainsley Harriott: A taste of Route 66
Route 66 serves up a mouth-watering taste of America, with flavours and influences from around the world. In this episode, Sean Fletcher hits the road with legendary TV chef Ainsley Harriott to explore the people, dishes and stories behind the food of the Mother Road.They chat to Bobby Lee, owner of The Big Texan, about a landmark year as the restaurant celebrates 66 years in business alongside Ro
Ray Mears: The great outdoors
When you think of Route 66, tarmac, classic cars and neon signs might be the first things that come to mind. But the Mother Road is also home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the United States. In this episode, legendary explorer Ray Mears joins Sean Fletcher to share his experiences of the natural wonders found along the route, as well as the unique wildlife that inhabit the US hear
Henry Cole: Roots of the road
One hundred years. 2,500 miles. Eight states. Route 66 is a living, linear museum: a road where every mile has a story. Joining Sean Fletcher is author, TV presenter and avid motorcyclist Henry Cole, who has travelled the Mother Road not once, but three times.Together, they meet Arizona-based author and historian Jim Hinckley to discover how Route 66 became so much more than a highway. And in Amar
James King: Stories from the screen
For aspiring actors, Route 66 was more than just a highway: it was a pathway to Hollywood. In this episode, Sean Fletcher sits down with film critic James King to explore why the Mother Road became such a powerful symbol of ambition, opportunity and the pursuit of stardom in American culture.Sean and James also speak to Jim Harris, executive director of the Santa Monica Pier and the pier's residen
Suzi Quatro: Music of the Mother Road
There aren’t many people out there who can say they have spent 63 years on the road, but rock ’n’ roll legend Suzi Quatro is one of the few. Suzi has lived through countless eras of music, performing up and down the United States and across the globe. Sean speaks to her about her life as a touring musician and the various sounds and artists that evolved along Route 66.Sean and Suzi chat to the man
Introducing... Route 66: America's Greatest Road Trip
In this eight-part series, journalist and broadcaster Sean Fletcher connects with his American roots, joined by famous figures who’ll help him pay tribute to the iconic Route 66 in its 100th year. Along the way he’ll learn how their lives were touched by it and meet the local characters keeping the spirit of this legendary highway alive.Route 66: America's Greatest Road Trip with Sean Fletcher is
