Stephen Mulhern, a man known for quick wit and polished performances, found himself utterly vulnerable – and completely naked – during a recent trip to South Korea. The experience, part of his new ITV show,Accidental Tourist, pushed him far beyond his comfort zone in a way he never anticipated.
The story unfolded during a visit to a traditional Korean massage parlor. Initially curious, Mulhern casually inquired about what to expect. The response, relayed through a translator, was shockingly direct: “All you need to do is take all your clothes off.” His initial reaction was disbelief, a moment of stunned silence before the reality of the situation truly hit.
Images from the show reveal a visibly uncomfortable Mulhern, clad only in black boxers, as a liquid is poured over his body. He described the massage itself as “horrific,” recounting how the practitioner contorted him into positions he didn’t know were humanly possible. “I was like a contortionist,” he confessed, jokingly referring to himself as “Bendy Wendy.”
The unexpected nudity wasn’t the only challenge. Mulhern, a self-described picky eater, faced another first: a prawn. The experience was so overwhelming, so intensely “meaty,” that he nearly became physically ill. It was a monumental hurdle for someone accustomed to a very specific palate.
Beyond the physical challenges, the journey proved surprisingly insightful. A meeting with a fortune teller yielded predictions that felt eerily accurate, details she couldn’t have possibly discovered through a simple internet search. These revelations struck a deeper chord, hinting at a more profound experience than just a travel adventure.
This year has brought significant change for Mulhern, including the cancellation ofDancing On Iceand a step back from his long-held role as a Butlins Redcoat. However, he viewsAccidental Touristas a unique opportunity – a chance to reveal a side of himself rarely seen on television.
“I think this is the most exposing thing I’ve ever done on TV,” Mulhern admitted. “This isn’t me presenting. This is me being myself. And that’s something people have never seen before.” The show promises a raw and honest portrayal of a beloved personality confronting the unfamiliar and embracing the unexpected.
