As part of its Spring 2025 programming slate, PBS has announced a new primetime docuseries PATI JINICH EXPLORES PANAMERICANA. Hosted and Executive Produced by the James Beard Award-winning author and Emmy-nominated host, the three-part series will premiere Tuesdays, April 29 – May 13, 2025 at 9:00 p.m. ET (check local listings) on PBS, PBS.org and the PBS app.
Known for her captivating exploration into understanding cultural identity through shared meals, Pati’s lifelong work has been focused on building bridges between her two beloved countries, her homeland of Mexico and her current home in the United States. PATI JINICH EXPLORES PANAMERICANA expands this remarkable endeavor on a journey inspired by the Pan-American Highway, a symbol of connection and collaboration between countries from Alaska to Argentina.
In Season 1, Pati travels from the top of Alaska to southern Alberta, beginning an epic adventure along the length of the Western Hemisphere and delving into our migratory evolution, history and identity as citizens of the Americas. Throughout her voyage she engages in heartfelt conversations that celebrate diversity and cherished traditions, ultimately exploring the myriad ways people form the basis of their identities.
Filled with stunning visual landscapes, rich history and fascinating stories, the series also promises adventure; from dog sledding and groundbreaking science in the Arctic, to salmon fishing in Halibut Cove, Alaskan Native modern art and Filipino food in Juneau, glass blowing in Whitehorse, and experiencing the cowboy life in the Alberta heartlands while exploring its connections to Montana and Texas.
An engaging and timely exploration of humanity, PATI JINICH EXPLORES PANAMERICANA reveals lessons learned to be shared, diversity to celebrate and the traditions we cherish, all while underscoring a profound truth: much like the roads that weave through our landscapes to connect us, we share more similarities than differences. At the core, we are all longing for home and craving to belong.
“My life’s work has focused on forging bonds between my home country of Mexico and my new home of the US by sharing delicious, culturally revealing meals with people from all walks of life,” says Pati. “In PANAMERICANA my adventures take me further, traveling an extraordinary path paved by the past, the present, and future possibilities for collaboration between people and countries. I’m honored to share the incredible stories gathered on this journey. It is through our stories that we can better understand one another to overcome the internal borders dividing our communities, change existing narratives, infuse hope into our discussions, and redefine what it means to be American.”
“PBS is thrilled to work with chef Pati Jinich to bring another appetizing adventure to our audiences,” said Zara Frankel, Senior Director, Programming & Development at PBS. “PATI JINCH EXPLORES PANAMERICANA is a program that treks through Alaska and western Canada, highlighting the unique people, flavors and cultures within the region. As a host, Pati’s warm energy, delicious curiosity and heartfelt conversations bring to life some of the region’s most interesting stories.”