“Phil Keoghan Drops Bombshell: The Amazing Race Hits Pause, but a Thrilling New Season Awaits!”

In a move that has shaken fans and the entire broadcast television landscape, The Amazing Race host Phil Keoghan dropped a major announcement after the conclusion of Season 37: the show is taking a temporary hiatus. While fans were reeling from the announcement, Keoghan left viewers with an exciting promise for the future: a triumphant return with Season 38, set to premiere in the fall of 2025.

Phil Keoghan attends the CBS Fest 2025 at Paramount Studios on May 07, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.

For more than two decades, The Amazing Race has been the go-to reality competition for adventure and excitement, sending teams across the globe to race for a million-dollar prize. With its dramatic challenges, cultural exploration, and unforgettable human moments, the show has been a beacon of excitement in the world of reality TV. But after an electrifying Season 37, which spanned 10 countries and over 29,000 miles, it was time for a break—one that is sparking curiosity and anticipation about what lies ahead.

A Shocking Announcement from the Pit Stop

The news came as a surprise during the final moments of Season 37. As the last teams crossed the finish line in Miami, Keoghan, standing at the mat, made a shocking revelation: The Amazing Race would take a brief break before returning with its 38th season. “We’ve just wrapped an incredible journey across 10 countries and over 29,000 miles,” Keoghan said, his voice filled with emotion. “But for now, we’re going to catch our breath, plan something even bigger, and come back stronger than ever in the fall of 2025.”

The decision to pause the show, though unexpected, is seen as a strategic move. Keoghan’s words underscored the sense of accomplishment that Season 37 had brought to the franchise while laying the groundwork for a refreshed and even more ambitious upcoming season. The break will allow the show’s producers to scout new, exciting locations, introduce fresh challenges, and ensure that Season 38 continues to push the boundaries of adventure television.

Phil Keoghan sits for a portrait during the 13th SCAD TVfest at Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta on February 05, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia.

The Reason Behind the Hiatus: A Strategic Pause

While Keoghan didn’t dive into the specifics, industry insiders speculate that the hiatus is a planned, creative decision rather than one caused by external pressures. Following the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced the cancellation and delay of Season 33, the show has made a steady recovery, adapting to new safety protocols and a heightened sense of purpose. This time, however, the hiatus appears to be a strategic pause, giving the team time to refine their approach and deliver a more engaging and groundbreaking experience for viewers.

Keoghan, in an interview with Collider in March 2025, hinted at the reasons for the break, emphasizing that the show thrives on keeping things fresh. “We’re always looking to keep things fresh,” he said. “This show thrives on surprises, and we want to make sure Season 38 delivers something fans haven’t seen before.”

Phil Keoghan sits for a portrait during the 13th SCAD TVfest at Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta on February 05, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia.

The pause also seems to be aligned with CBS’s scheduling strategy. With The Amazing Race airing in the spring alongside Survivor, the fall slot seems like the ideal place for the show’s next season to land. The extended 90-minute episodes that became a hit in recent seasons are expected to return, allowing the show to expand its storytelling and give more attention to the cultural richness of each destination. This strategic planning ensures that the show remains a prime-time staple while creating an even more thrilling and immersive experience for viewers.

A Legacy of Adventure and Cultural Exploration

Since its debut in 2001, The Amazing Race has redefined reality television by combining the thrill of competition with the beauty of cultural exploration. Hosted by Keoghan, whose passion for travel and adventure has been a constant presence throughout the show’s run, the program has visited nearly 100 countries, covered over a million miles, and garnered 10 Primetime Emmy Awards. The show’s success lies in its ability to showcase diverse cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and inspiring human stories—bringing global perspectives to a wide audience.

Keoghan, who has been the face of The Amazing Race since its inception, often describes the show’s ability to connect people from different walks of life. “What keeps this show alive is its focus on what connects us,” he explained in an interview. “It’s not about who you vote for or what you believe—it’s about the universal desire to explore, to challenge yourself, and to share in the human experience.”

This ability to connect people across cultures has been central to the success of the show, which has evolved over the years to include new twists, creative challenges, and diverse teams that highlight the human spirit of competition. Season 37, in particular, saw innovative elements like the “Fork in the Road” challenge and familiar fan-favorite twists such as the Double U-Turn and Fast Forward, creating an unforgettable race for both participants and viewers alike.

What to Expect from Season 38: The Hype Builds

As fans eagerly await the return of The Amazing Race, Keoghan and CBS have teased some exciting updates for the upcoming season. Although details about Season 38 are still under wraps, Keoghan promised that fans can expect “new destinations” and “game-changing twists.” These teasers have sent viewers into a frenzy, speculating on what exciting new locations and challenges will be featured.

Keoghan also hinted at a potential shift in casting, with rumors swirling about the possibility of featuring more familiar faces, such as Big Brother alumni or fresh faces to add new dynamics to the race. One thing fans can count on, however, is the signature blend of fast-paced action, jaw-dropping locations, and intense competition that has made The Amazing Race a fan favorite for over two decades.

“We know fans love the airports, the self-driving, the chaos,” Keoghan told CinemaBlend in January 2025. “Expect more of that, but also some surprises that’ll make you rethink what The Amazing Race can be.” The new season promises to keep viewers on the edge of their seats, with unpredictable twists and dramatic moments that will keep the audience guessing until the very end.

A Moment to Reflect and Recharge: Keoghan’s Dedication to the Show

For Keoghan, the break is an opportunity to recharge after the intense pace of production. At 57, he has spent more than two decades racing alongside teams, often sprinting to the Pit Stops just ahead of them. “It’s not me sipping piña coladas by the pool,” he laughed in an interview with The Things. “I’m racing too, just without the clues.” The grueling pace of the show, which includes filming 12 legs of the race in just 21 days, takes its toll on everyone involved.

Keoghan’s dedication to The Amazing Race remains unwavering, and the pause gives him a chance to regroup and ensure that Season 38 is bigger and better than ever. “We’ve got a million more miles to cover,” Keoghan said optimistically. “And we’re just getting started.”

What’s Next for the Race?

As The Amazing Race heads into its break, the show’s future is brimming with potential. Whether it’s new locations, fresh twists, or innovative gameplay, Keoghan’s promise to push the boundaries of the show has fans eagerly anticipating what’s to come. While the hiatus might feel like a long wait, it’s clear that The Amazing Race will return with a renewed sense of purpose and an even bigger adventure awaiting its dedicated audience.

In the meantime, viewers can revisit past seasons on Paramount+ to relive the excitement and drama of past races. From the deserts of Dubai to the bustling streets of Tokyo, the journey of The Amazing Race has taken viewers on unforgettable global adventures—and the best is yet to come. So get ready—The Amazing Race will be back, and it’s sure to take fans on an even bigger, bolder ride.