Jeremy Clarkson Bids Farewell to Car Shows After 36-Year Run

Jeremy Clarkson, the renowned British broadcaster and journalist, has announced his departure from car-related television programming after an impressive 36-year career. The 64-year-old presenter, known for his towering 6'5" stature, cited age and physical constraints as the primary reasons for his decision.

In a candid interview with The Sunday Times, Clarkson stated, "After 36 years of talking about cars on television, I'm packing it in, because I'm too old and fat to get into the cars that I like and not interested in driving those I don't." This announcement marks the conclusion of his long-standing collaboration with James May and Richard Hammond, a partnership that has spanned 22 years and captivated audiences worldwide.

The trio's final adventure will be showcased in the upcoming episode of The Grand Tour on Amazon Prime. Clarkson described the experience as "emotional," signaling the end of an era in automotive entertainment.

Clarkson's career in motoring journalism began in 1988 when he joined Top Gear, a show that would later become a global phenomenon. The program, which Clarkson helped relaunch in 2002, was known for its blend of automotive content and "schoolboy naughtiness." At its peak, Top Gear was broadcast in 214 territories worldwide, cementing its status as one of the most widely watched television programs globally.

The presenter's tenure at the BBC came to an abrupt end in 2015 following an altercation with a producer. This incident led to the creation of The Grand Tour on Amazon Prime, where Clarkson, Hammond, and May continued their automotive escapades.

Throughout his career, Clarkson has been a polarizing figure, known for his outspoken and often provocative style. He reflected on Top Gear's impact, saying, "It was the show that sat in the BBC schedules like a big blue skid mark. It became a dartboard for the left."

One of the most memorable incidents in Clarkson's career occurred in 2014 during a trip to Argentina. The team's use of a Porsche 928 with the license plate H982 FKL sparked controversy due to its perceived reference to the Falklands War. Clarkson maintained that the plate's selection "really was an accident," though he jokingly added, "I wish I'd thought of it."

"If people approach me to sell a cherished car, I endeavour to sell it to someone who will continue to look after it in a way the previous owner had."

Beyond his television career, Clarkson has established himself as a successful author and entrepreneur. He has published numerous books, primarily compilations of his newspaper articles, and co-founded the production company W. Chump & Sons.

As Clarkson steps away from the driver's seat of car-related television, his impact on automotive journalism and entertainment remains undeniable. His unique blend of humor, controversy, and genuine passion for automobiles has left an indelible mark on the industry, inspiring a new generation of car enthusiasts and presenters alike.