The ITV presenter became emotional as he spoke about his dad Christopher, who passed away earlier this year
Stephen Mulhern has broken down in tears over a devastating family death.
Stephen has teamed up with cherished presenting pair Ant and Dec for a brand new ITV special.
Accidental Tourist sees Stephen venture beyond his usual boundaries as Ant and Dec send him to South Korea, where he’ll sample unfamiliar cuisine and challenge himself in a bid to expand his experiences.
The programme’s description states: “In an effort to help to test his resolve and push his boundaries, Stephen will encounter epic locations, exotic cultures and cuisines, incredible people and places and exhilarating activities he would never have chosen for himself.”
In a previous statement, Stephen revealed: “Travelling and adventures have never been on my list of favourite things, so to say I’m nervous would be a huge understatement! This project sort of feels like the world’s worst bucket list!” reports Wales Online.
Stephen Mulhern faced his fears in Korea(Image: ITV)
During Sunday’s episode (December 14), the presenter became visibly moved whilst honouring his father, Christopher, who died earlier this year.
Before embarking on his journey, Stephen shared with cameras: “If I was to tell my dad this, my dad passed away at the start of the year.”
He was then forced to halt the interview as emotions overwhelmed him, offering an apology: “Sorry.” Stephen continued: “[My dad] wouldn’t believe it. I hope he would be proud.”
Upon reaching Korea, Stephen was presented with a letter from his mother, which stirred up further emotions.
“My darling Stevie, when you read this letter you will be in Korea. Since you were small, you have always loved magic. From the bottom of my heart, I hope you see the magic in this trip,” the heartfelt note read.
Stephen became emotional after his dad passed away(Image: ITV)
An emotional Stephen carried on reading the touching message, which continued: “Give it your best shot like you always do. On that note my darling, me and daddy will be with you every step of the way. Get back quick. Love you forever, mum and dad.”
ITV audiences found themselves equally moved by the poignant moment, with one viewer posting on X (formerly Twitter): “Omg, I didn’t know his dad passed away at the beginning of the year.”
Another penned: “I don’t want to see Stephen Mulhern crying on my TV. Why is ITV doing this to me. Stop [crying emoji],” whilst a third simply wrote: “Aww, Stephen.”
A fourth supporter expressed similar feelings, commenting: “When he cried I just wanted to jump in the TV and hug him,” with another fan sharing: “I wanna applaud @StephenMulhern for #AccidentalTourist. He’s overcoming a lot of fears and absolutely smashing it!!! His dad would absolutely be so proud of him!”
Throughout his Korean adventure, Stephen sampled prawns for the first time, experienced a traditional naked Korean massage, and even went diving for abalone and pineapple fish alongside the renowned Haenyeo sea women.
Accidental Tourist is available to stream on ITVX
