The question on everyone’s mind has been answered. Jeremy Clarkson along with his Top Gear colleagues Richard Hammond and James May have found a new home in Amazon Prime. Long time Top Gear executive producer Andy Wilman has also jumped ship to join the upcoming show.
Speaking about this deal, Amazon Prime Video EU’s vice-president Jay Marine said
“Customers told us they wanted to see the team back on screen, and we are excited to make that happen.”
Clarkson announced it on Twitter with a tweet.
I'm very excited to announce that Hammond, May and I have signed a deal with .@AmazonVideo
— Jeremy Clarkson (@JeremyClarkson) July 30, 2015
He was shortly followed by Hammond and May
I've got a job I've got a job I've got a job. Haircut, clean jeans and practice driving again. Forrrrwaaaaaaaard!!
— Richard Hammond (@RichardHammond) July 30, 2015
Good news! I've got a job with @AmazonVideoUK. Bad news! So have the other two. #AmazonPrime #ItSaysHere
— James May (@MrJamesMay) July 30, 2015
Amazon Prime signing ends moths of speculation as to where the former Top Gear presenters will land after Clarkson’s now-infamous fracas with producer Oison Tymon, where Clarkson allegedly punched Tymon in the face because of a dispute over a cold dinner.
After Clarkson’s contract wasn’t renewed, some speculated that Hammond and May would continue without him, but after they both declined to sign new contracts, it became apparent that wherever Clarkson went, the others would follow.
BBC rival ITV was the most probable option to sign up the trio, however their BBC non-compete clause didn’t allow them to do a similar car show for 2 years in the UK.
The new car show, which hasn’t yet been named, will stream on Amazon’s Prime service. The BBC will continue making Top Gear with new host Chris Evans, with BBC even announcing a competition to select co-host for Evans.