Race Across the World pals Jo and Kush on fame, friendship and family

Jordan Kenny and Ian Murphy, BBC Newsbeat

Jo Diop (left) and Kush Burman are the youngest duo in this series of Race Across the World.

For those captivated by the latest installment of Race Across the World, it is likely that you have selected a favorite pair of contestants. Best friends Kush Burman and Jo Diop have certainly earned a special place in the hearts of many viewers, who are eager to witness their journey to northern Mongolia.

However, their friends react differently.

"All my mates' mums are loving it more than my mates are," shares 20-year-old Kush.

"Half my mates say, 'I can't lie, I've still got to catch up on the past few episodes, but I'm loving it so far.'"

The BBC series presents a formidable challenge to pairs of travelers as they embark on a 12,000 km (7,450 mile) trek across Europe and Asia, equipped only with limited cash and without access to phones.

The first team to complete the journey will earn a prize of £20,000.

As likable contestants from Liverpool, Jo and Kush are tight-lipped about the outcome of the final leg but promise viewers an episode filled with "high stress, very tense" moments.

"Expect nothing, have no expectations," suggests Kush. "It's a wild place, Mongolia."

"It truly is; there are no roads," adds Jo, 19. "You might as well just not have the maps."

Throughout their journey, we have seen Jo and Kush unwind with activities such as basketball and an evening of Mongolian throat singing. Yet, a visit to a judo gym in Kazakhstan led Kush to confront deeper emotions, reminiscent of his late stepdad, Matt.

Viewers witnessed Kush in tears as he recounted the tragic loss of Matt, who took his own life during the lockdown when Kush was only 14.

In one touching moment, he reflects, "I really wish I could show him who I am now."

Kush expressed to BBC Newsbeat that viewing this emotional scene alongside his family was challenging.

"Typically, when we talk about my dad, it is in a more light-hearted context, like, 'Do you remember this?'" he explains.

"But discussing the feelings and emotions surrounding it can be quite tough. However, the public's response has been incredibly heartwarming."

The outpouring of support from viewers who have faced similar experiences has deeply resonated with him, leading Kush to state, "I would like to take this moment to thank everyone."

'Don't do anything for anyone else'

Kush credits Jo's presence during this vulnerable period as instrumental in helping him cope. Their close bond has greatly contributed to their popularity among viewers. During the interview with Newsbeat, Kush acknowledged Jo's pivotal role in his life, stating that he has relied on her support during every major event.

"I think you know best what I need to hear... and that definitely helps when I discuss these situations because you know the right words to say."

Jo concurs, recognizing that they have both been integral parts of each other’s lives.

"We have witnessed each other at our lowest points, so when those moments arise during the race, it is not surprising for us. I feel like we have learned how to bounce back and counter each other's negativity."

Ten contestants initiated the race in Sicily, but only two will emerge as winners of the £20,000 prize.

Jo and Kush admit that they applied to participate in the show as "a bit of a joke" after completing their A-levels.

Regardless of their future endeavors, they will have to navigate their growing recognition, though the prospect of newfound fame does not seem to faze them.

"I find it so enjoyable," says Kush.

"Just yesterday, we signed our first autographs, which I thought was really sweet."

Jo recounts an amusing moment at a basketball game when three boys approached them, exclaiming, "Yo, Jo and Kush, can you sign us?"

"We were surprised and thought, 'Are you serious?'" recalls Kush, as they signed autographs for their new fans.

The duo affirms that should they win the £20,000 prize, they would share it equally, and they already have plans for future travel.

"We'd have to treat ourselves a little," Jo mentions.

"I'd likely buy a nice pair of Jordan 4s for a new outfit and a fun holiday while saving the remainder."

Remaining true to their family-oriented values, he also hopes to "contribute to a future house for my mum at some point."

Kush echoes this sentiment, expressing his intentions to embark on more gap years, emphasizing what he has learned through the Race Across the World experience.

"There is no rush—don’t do anything for anyone else," he advises.

"If you want to travel, do it. If you don’t, that is perfectly fine. Just ensure that your actions are driven by genuine enjoyment, not obligation."

The Race Across the World finale can be viewed on BBC One at 20:00 BST on Thursday, 21 May, and it will also be available on iPlayer.