The BBC is reviving its popular car show "Top Gear" four years after production was halted following a serious accident involving former host Freddie Flintoff. Comedian Jimmy Carr is reportedly set to take the helm, bringing a new comedic direction to the program. The deal is said to be in place for Carr, best known for hosting Channel 4 panel shows like "8 Out Of 10 Cats" and "Big Fat Quiz Of The Year."
Sources indicate that while Carr is known for his humor, he is also a genuine car enthusiast with a collection that includes an Aston Martin DB6, a Ferrari California, and a Bentley GT. He previously shared his experience driving a Marussia F1 car at high speeds with "Top Gear Magazine" in 2014.
Plans for the show's return were confirmed last month at the Edinburgh TV Festival by BBC director of entertainment Ed Havard. The series, originally launched in 1977, was significantly re-imagined in 2002 by executive producer Andy Wilman and hosts Jeremy Clarkson, James May, and Richard Hammond, achieving global success.
A New Lineup and Safety Focus
The revival aims for a fresh start with a new presenting team. Paddy McGuinness and automotive journalist Chris Harris, who hosted in recent years, are not expected to return. Insiders suggest that BBC bosses are keen to have a female co-host, with rally champion Catie Munnings being a strong contender. Munnings, 28, is a regular contributor to "Top Gear" magazine and podcast and was the Ladies European Rally Champion at 18. She also hosted the CBBC show "Catie's Amazing Machines."
The legendary anonymous driver, The Stig, is also slated to return. The individual who played The Stig in the last series, Paul Rees, claims he suffered a broken back and PTSD after being a passenger in Freddie Flintoff's crash and is suing BBC Studios for damages. For the new iteration, producers are reportedly considering a female racing driver for the role of The Stig, aiming for a complete reimagining of the show's lineup.
Return to Dunsfold Aerodrome
In a notable decision, "Top Gear" is set to resume filming at Dunsfold Aerodrome in Surrey, the site of Freddie Flintoff's 2022 accident. The aerodrome, which had been slated for housing development, has had its planning permission halted, preserving the iconic racetrack for the show's return. The accident, which resulted in severe facial and rib injuries for Flintoff, prompted an internal review and significant safety revisions for the series.
The revived "Top Gear" will implement the strictest safety procedures, with a focus shifting away from the most dangerous stunts. Professional drivers are expected to handle the riskiest segments, and dedicated safety executives and medical professionals will be on-site. Sources emphasize that serious lessons have been learned from past incidents.
Beyond the core hosts, the show plans to feature guest appearances from celebrities such as actor Rowan Atkinson and former England rugby player Joe Marler. Additionally, audience members who are influential within the car community may also bring their expertise to the show. The exact on-screen chemistry between Carr and Munnings remains to be seen as the production gears up for filming early next year.