Tony Shalhoub’s Passion for Bread: How It Can Expand Your World

Tony Shalhoub Explores Global Culinary Stories in New CNN Series

Exploring the World of Bread Through Cultural Connections

Tony Shalhoub is set to captivate audiences in his new CNN series “Breaking Bread.” Although he insists his approach differs from his frequent collaborator Stanley Tucci’s travel food shows, Shalhoub’s enthusiasm shines through. Known for his role in “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,” Shalhoub embarks on a global journey to explore diverse bread cultures, delving into stories entwined with migration, labor, and personal family history. The legacy of Shalhoub’s father, who emigrated from Lebanon to Wisconsin, serves as a heartfelt inspiration for the show.

A Personal Journey Across Continents

In “Breaking Bread,” premiering Sunday at 9 p.m. Pacific, Shalhoub travels across the globe to places with personal significance. Due to current political instability in Lebanon, the first episode takes viewers to Brazil—home to a large Lebanese community. Shalhoub also explores New York, where he resides, and Wisconsin, his home state. His adventures extend to Marseille, France, shedding light on his father’s historical immigration route from Lebanon to Ellis Island.

Culinary Adventures With Family

This series includes special appearances by Shalhoub’s family members, such as his daughter Josie Adams and a nephew. Through these familial connections, Shalhoub connects deeply with food traditions that have long bonded his family. Josie and Shalhoub explore the municipal archives in Marseille, uncovering previously unknown details about their family’s journey to America.

Beyond Food: Sparking Broader Conversations

While the series features mouth-watering bread-based dishes—such as Mary O’s Irish Soda Bread scones and cassava flour cheese bread in Brazil—Shalhoub emphasizes that “Breaking Bread” is about more than culinary experiences. He aims to ignite broader discussions about cultural histories and personal stories, seeing bread as a conduit to deeper understanding.

A Transformative Food Show Experience

“Breaking Bread” isn’t Shalhoub’s first on-screen experience with food, but it’s transformative in connecting him with new people and places. Through unscripted engagements, Shalhoub discovers moments that transcend words, expressing his reactions physically rather than verbally. Highlights of these experiences include savoring unexpected culinary delights that redefine his understanding of bread.

Revelations and Surprises Along the Way

• Discovering unique bread-making techniques and ingredients.
• Engaging with diverse communities and personal narratives.
• Gaining insights into global culinary traditions and innovations.

In summary, “Breaking Bread” serves as a bridge to cultural engagement and storytelling. Shalhoub seeks to make global connections through the simple yet profound medium of bread, encouraging conversations that move beyond the dinner table.

Stay tuned for more captivating insights from Tony Shalhoub’s “Breaking Bread,” exclusively on CNN.