EXCLUSIVE: In the grand tradition of Charles Dickens and Oscar Wilde, Craig Ferguson is going on a grand tour of America for CNN and the nation’s 250th birthday.
The Emmy- and Peabody-winning comedian will host Craig Ferguson: American On Purpose. Produced by The Intellectual Property Corporation, the series will premiere later this year as part of CNN Originals’ 2026 programming slate.
The series is described as a cross-country journey to explore the topics and people who make up modern America and ask what it really means to be American today.
American On Purpose unpacks the country’s chaotic, triumphant, and controversial 250-year journey of independence, per the official description. “Ferguson explores the identity of the country he now calls home after becoming a proud citizen in 2008, digging into its freedoms, contradictions, and cultural quirks. The journey takes him from monster truck rallies to Ellis Island and beyond, combining American history with his signature wit and playfulness to meet the moment of the nation’s 250th anniversary.”
“Any chance I get to remind my fellow Americans that we are still the best idea for a country anyone has ever had I’m going to take it. My eagle is still bald and my banner is still spangled with stars,” said Ferguson.
American On Purpose unpacks the country’s chaotic, triumphant, and controversial 250-year journey of independence. Ferguson explores the identity of the country he now calls home after becoming a proud citizen in 2008, digging into its freedoms, contradictions, and cultural quirks. The journey takes him from monster truck rallies to Ellis Island and beyond, combining American history with his signature wit and playfulness to meet the moment of the nation’s 250th anniversary.
“Craig has an extraordinary ability to ask serious questions without losing a sense of joy, perspective, or humanity,” said Amy Entelis, executive vice president of talent, CNN Originals and creative development for CNN Worldwide. “At a moment of reflection for the country, the series invites viewers to look inward through a voice that is insightful, generous, and profound.”
Ferguson serves as executive producer along with Eli Holzman, Aaron Saidman, and Erin Gamble for IPC; showrunner Morgan Fallon and Amy Entelis, Lyle Gamm and Katie Hinman for CNN.
Ferguson is repped by WME, Vault Entertainment and Gang, Tyre.
English (US) ·