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.
Re @SkyNews Top Gear debate. I can categorically say I am not and will NEVER be running for office. Pls discount my candidacy. .
— Chris Evans (@achrisevans) March 11, 2015
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
