CheechLast Updated on 3 weeks by Cheech
Top Gear is a popular British television series about cars that originally aired from 1977 to 2001. It was later relaunched in 2002 with a new format and a new set of presenters. The show became known for its entertaining and humorous approach to reviewing cars, as well as its various challenges, races, and celebrity guests.
The original format of Top Gear featured a panel of presenters who discussed various aspects of the automotive industry and reviewed cars. The show was known for its irreverent and often controversial style, with presenters Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May leading the way.
In 2002, the show was relaunched with a new format and a new team of presenters. Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May returned as the main hosts, and the show gained even more popularity, attracting a global audience. The new Top Gear introduced several new segments and challenges, such as the “Star in a Reasonably Priced Car” segment, where celebrities would compete in a lap around the Top Gear test track.
Top Gear became one of the most-watched factual television programs in the world, attracting millions of viewers and gaining a dedicated fanbase. The show was praised for its entertaining and often humorous content, as well as its high production values. However, it also faced its fair share of controversies, including incidents involving the presenters and criticism over certain comments and stunts.
In 2015, Jeremy Clarkson was suspended and later fired from Top Gear following an altercation with a producer. This led to the departure of Richard Hammond and James May as well. However, the BBC decided to continue the show with new hosts, and Chris Evans and Matt LeBlanc were brought on board for the following series. The new lineup received mixed reviews, and Chris Evans ultimately left the show after one series.
In 2016, a new version of Top Gear was launched with a revamped lineup, featuring Matt LeBlanc as the main presenter alongside Chris Harris and Rory Reid. The show underwent further changes in subsequent series, including the addition of Sabine Schmitz and Eddie Jordan. However, the new version of Top Gear failed to capture the same level of success and popularity as the previous iteration.
In 2019, it was announced that the original presenting trio of Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May would be reuniting for a new car show called “The Grand Tour.” The show is available on Amazon Prime Video and follows a similar format to their time on Top Gear, featuring car reviews, challenges, and adventures in various locations around the world.