Chris Evans ‘categorically’ replaces Jeremy Clarkson on Top Gear

Top Gear BMW 330d at Silverstone, Sept 2007 by Colin Eric

In the midst of the controversy surrounding Jeremy Clarkson’s “fracas” with the producer Oisin Tymon a number of candidates were mooted for replacing the loutish petrol-head behind the wheel of Top Gear, one of the best watched programmes in the world.

Amongst them was one Chris Evans, a broadcaster whose long career has included The Big Breakfast and the Radio 1 Breakfast Show. Several bookies had Evans as the frontrunner, with much of Fleet Street and the media touting him as the likeliest choice.

The response? A categorical denial.

At the time of this tweet Clarkson’s position was still a matter of some dispute. However shortly after the motoring journalist was effectively sacked, with the Beeb refusing to renew his contract.

Co-presenters James May and Richard Hammond also left, with Andy Wilman – producer and longtime pal of Jazza – following suit amid rumours they would essential remake the show elsewhere.

How bizarre then that months later the BBC should announce a deal with someone called Chris Evans, who will lead the show for three years amid an all new lineup. Commenting on the matter, Evans gushed:

“I’m thrilled, Top Gear is my favourite programme of all time. Created by a host of brilliant minds who love cars and understand how to make the massively complicated come across as fun, devil-may-care and effortless.”

Well at least we know he has a talent for U-turns…

Header Image – Top Gear BMW 330d at Silverstone, September 2007 by Colin Eric

Jimmy Nicholls
Writes somewhat about British politics and associated matters. Contact jimmy@rightdishonourable.com

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