James Maslow is trading sitcom soundstages for real-world adrenaline in his new YouTube series UNBOUND, which premiered its first episode yesterday!

The series follows the Big Time Rush heartthrob as he travels the world, teaming up with experts, celebrities, athletes, and creators to tackle “high‑intensity, once‑in‑a‑lifetime experiences.” As reported by Deadline, the project marks a new chapter for Maslow as both on-camera talent and creator, blurring the line between travel show, docuseries, and pure thrill-seeking.

Season one of UNBOUND was filmed across Los Angeles, Nashville, Miami, and Hawaii, folding together American road-trip energy with serious physical and mental challenges. Guests this season include Jaime Camil (Jane the Virgin), trainer and bodybuilder Mike O’Hearn, firearms training company Taran Tactical, racecar driver Ryan Phinny, and digital creator Alvaro Nunez.

Across episodes, James dives into everything from racecar driving and tactical training to exploring the Everglades, framing each adventure as a chance to push past comfort zones and reconnect with passions he put on pause during 20 years of nonstop work.

The series is already looking beyond U.S. borders. A second season is in the works and planned to take place across Asia, including Japan and South Korea, with episodes set to explore “high‑energy pop culture, deeply rooted traditions, and cross‑cultural discovery.”

A developing third season is slated for Israel, where Maslow, who is Jewish, will train with and spotlight competitors at the Maccabiah Games, using sports as an entry point to explore the intersection of identity, culture, and heritage.

Reflecting on the project, Maslow says UNBOUND represents both a creative evolution and a personal reset. “When I started in this industry, television was the gold standard,” he said in a statement about the venture. “Today, I believe YouTube holds that place — a platform where anyone can bring their imagination to life.”

“After 20 years of nonstop work, Unbound has let me turn long-neglected hobbies and adventures into something meaningful. It’s been my excuse to have fun again. This year I’ve reconnected with old friends, lived more life, and helped create something special. And maybe it’s just the beginning — there are a few more shows I’d love to produce for friends next.”

With its mix of celebrity guests, extreme experiences, and locations spanning the U.S. and beyond, UNBOUND positions James Maslow as more than a former boy-band star; he’s stepping into the role of host, producer, and guide, inviting viewers along as he quite literally breaks out of the box he grew up in on TV.

Watch the first episode below and don’t forget to susbcribe!