Joe Marler and Joe Wilkinson Team Up for a New Boat Trip Series
Release Date: 17 September 2026
Joe Marler, the 36-year-old rugby star, and 51-year-old comedian Joe Wilkinson are reuniting for a new series titled The Friend Ship. This show will explore Britain’s waterways and brings together their unique friendship, which blossomed during their time on The Celebrity Traitors.
Show Overview
As announced by the BBC, The Friend Ship will mix Wilkinson’s enthusiasm for canals and Marler’s love for fun. Together, they promise a journey filled with childlike silliness. The series will take viewers on a revealing boat trip that celebrates connection, community, and friendship.
Wilkinson and Marler aim to put their bond to the test as they embark on a barging adventure across the UK, culminating at the Falkirk Wheel, renowned for its engineering marvel.
Episode Highlights
Over the course of six 30-minute episodes, the duo will travel through picturesque locations including North Wales, the West Country, Birmingham, the Pennines, London, and Edinburgh. Along the way, they will meet a variety of people and immerse themselves in canal life.
Wilkinson expressed his excitement for the journey: “I love canals, I love Joe Marler, I love drizzle. Making this show is absolute heaven for me.”
Marler shared his anticipation as well, stating, “I’m really excited to be spending an intense amount of time with my favourite hundy, Joe. Less looking forward to the claustrophobic canal boat, but if we can get through that, I’m sure our bond will be stronger than ever.”
Patrick McMahon, the BBC’s Commissioning Editor, commented on the duo’s appeal: “The nation took Joe and Joe to their hearts as their friendship blossomed on Celebrity Traitors, so we’re delighted to offer BBC viewers the chance to see them take their relationship to the next level.”
Filming for the series is currently underway, and transmission details will be announced in the future.
Joe Marler and Joe Wilkinson
