Rob Rinder, known for his role as Judge Rinder, is offering a rare glimpse into his love life in the new BBC series, Rob and Rylan's Passage to India. The show, which sees him reunite with Rylan Clark, follows the pair as they retrace the steps of E.M. Forster, Rinder's literary hero, and explore India's rich culture and history.
In the first episode, which aired on September 14, 2025, Rinder and Clark are seen relaxing in a hotel in their dressing gowns while getting ready to enjoy some chocolate birthday cake. During their conversation, Rinder shares some insights into his romantic pursuits. When Clark asks Rinder about his hopes, Rinder reveals, "I thought I wanted a scaffolder who could read Proust, as you know. But basically all I want is just someone who can make me laugh".
Rinder, 47, was previously in a civil partnership with fellow barrister Seth Cumming. The couple married in 2013 in a private ceremony in Ibiza, officiated by Benedict Cumberbatch, whom Rinder met at the University of Manchester. However, they divorced in 2017, with the process finalized the following year. Since his separation from Cumming, Rinder is believed to be single.
The series Rob and Rylan's Passage to India marks the second time Rinder and Clark have teamed up for a travelogue. Their previous series, Rob and Rylan's Grand Tour, saw them travel to Italy and won a BAFTA for Best Factual Entertainment. In Passage to India, the pair explore India's art, culture, and history, meeting diverse people along the way, including reality TV star and art collector Shalini Passi, rapper and Dalit rights activist Naveen Kumar, and openly gay politician Anish Gawande. The duo's journey begins in Delhi, where they visit Humayun's Tomb and the India Gate. Later episodes will feature them in Rajasthan and Varanasi, experimenting with activities such as miniature painting and traditional mud wrestling.
Rylan Clark has also spoken about his close bond with Rinder, saying that they are "best friends". He added, "Much as I love him, Rob isn't my boyfriend. I love him too much to marry him". Clark is currently in a relationship with Kennedy Bates.
Rob and Rylan's Passage to India is a three-part series that blends humor, history, and heart. The show airs on BBC Two on Sundays at 9 pm, with all episodes available on iPlayer.
