Jeremy Clarkson: World Too Dangerous for Exotic Grand Tour Locations

Jeremy Clarkson, renowned motoring presenter, has expressed his views on the challenges facing The Grand Tour's production in today's global climate. The 64-year-old broadcaster highlighted the increasing difficulties in finding suitable exotic locations for the show due to widespread conflicts and security concerns.

Reflecting on the show's journey, Clarkson stated, "We've done everything you can realistically do with a car and the world has shrunk and that's the tragedy." He reminisced about past adventures, including trips through Syria, Myanmar, and Ukraine, which are now inaccessible due to ongoing conflicts.

The Grand Tour, which began in November 2016, has been a spiritual successor to the popular Top Gear format. However, after five series, the show is concluding with a final road trip special titled "One For The Road," set to air on September 13, 2024.

This last adventure takes place in Zimbabwe and Botswana, two southern African nations known for their diverse wildlife and natural beauty. The choice of location underscores the team's commitment to exploring new territories, even as global tensions limit their options.

Clarkson's comments reflect a broader change in the landscape of travel-based entertainment. The trio's Top Gear specials, which began in 2002, often featured challenging road trips in unusual or difficult locations. However, the current global situation has significantly reduced the number of viable filming destinations.

Despite the end of their collaborative presenting career, Clarkson remains optimistic about maintaining connections with his co-presenters, Richard Hammond and James May. "I can see James and Hammond any time I want to, they're only a phone call away, and I'm sure we will [meet up]," he said.

As The Grand Tour concludes, Clarkson is shifting his focus to other projects. His documentary series, Clarkson's Farm, which chronicles his attempts to run a 1,000-acre farm in the Cotswolds, continues to gain popularity. The show's fourth series is currently in production and is expected to feature Clarkson's new pub, The Farmer's Dog, which opened in August 2024.

The pub's anticipated popularity has prompted local authorities to implement traffic management measures, including reduced speed limits in the area. Interestingly, Clarkson has barred Sir Keir Starmer, the leader of the Labour Party, from the establishment, adding a touch of controversy to the venture.

As fans prepare to bid farewell to The Grand Tour, Clarkson's reflections serve as a poignant reminder of the changing world and the challenges facing global entertainment productions. The trio's final adventure in Zimbabwe and Botswana promises to be a fitting conclusion to their long-standing partnership, which has entertained audiences for over two decades.

"We were very lucky to do what we did, when we did."

This statement encapsulates the unique era of television that Clarkson, Hammond, and May were fortunate to be a part of, highlighting the fleeting nature of such opportunities in an ever-changing world.