Jeremy Clarkson Cuts Off Host to Issue Frank Warning About Grand Tour Replacements
The announcement of The Grand Tour's return earlier this year initially thrilled fans, but disappointment quickly followed when it was revealed that original hosts Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May would not be part of the new series. Instead, Amazon has selected three new presenters: Francis Bourgeois, James Engelsman, and Thomas Holland. Many viewers expressed concerns that the new trio might lack the chemistry and magic of the original lineup, fearing the show could lose its iconic appeal.
Clarkson's Unexpected Defense on Podcast
During an appearance on the Autocar podcast My Week in Cars, hosted by journalists Steve Cropley and Matt Prior, the topic of The Grand Tour arose. Matt Prior began discussing the show's absence, saying, 'We've been doing this for three years, and so we find ourselves talking about car programs and the fact that it's not here anymore.' Before he could finish, Jeremy Clarkson abruptly interrupted, stating firmly, 'It's coming back.' When Matt acknowledged this, Clarkson cut in again with a series of emphatic 'no's, warning, 'Don't be hasty. Do not be hasty.'
Clarkson went on to explain that while he is not involved in the new series, the original producer Andy Wilman is overseeing it. He revealed that he has seen early footage of the new hosts and has been impressed. 'I've seen the guys being chosen in the early days, and I've seen some of the stuff they've been doing. And it's very, very good,' he said. He admitted that the show will be different due to the distinct personalities of the new presenters but emphasized their comedic talent, adding, 'It's different because they're three completely different people to us. But they're bl**dy funny.' Clarkson expressed confidence in the new format, concluding, 'You shall see. But no, I'm pretty confident that that will work. I love the idea that Grand Tour carried on in this way.'
Details on the New Grand Tour Series
Amazon and Jeremy Clarkson confirmed the return of The Grand Tour with the new hosts in February 2026. The upcoming six-part series will feature the trio embarking on various adventures, including crossing the Angolan desert in track cars, exploring Malaysia's vibrant car culture, and testing American performance cars in California. In a statement about his new role, Francis Bourgeois humorously noted, 'The saying "big shoes to fill" springs to mind. Well, in this case, it'll be like Mo Farah running in Size 14 wellies—it'll be a little awkward at first, perhaps blister-inducing, but will overall be an interesting watch.'
The Grand Tour remains available for streaming on Amazon Prime, with the new series set to bring a fresh dynamic to the beloved motoring show. Fans are encouraged to keep an open mind as the new hosts take the wheel, backed by Clarkson's endorsement and the continued involvement of key production staff.
