Jeremy Clarkson Update: ‘Top Gear’ Executive Producer Says Goodbye as BBC Head Faces Death Threats

By Isaiah Narciso
Top Gear's Jeremy Clarkson
Jeremy Clarkson. Photo: Top Gear

Controversial presenter Jeremy Clarkson did not have his contract renewed by the British Broadcasting Corp. after an internal report revealed that he verbally and physically attacked a producer. Now his childhood friend and "Top Gear" executive producer Andy Wilman has left the show after that fallout.

Matt Hardigree of Jalopnik managed to obtain an email that Wilman sent to current and former staff behind the internationally popular show on Monday. Wilman's message confirmed that he was also done working for the BBC, noting that "at least we left 'em wanting more."

"When you think about it, is quite an achievement for a show that started 13 years ago," Wilman wrote. "I know none of us wanted it to end this way, but for a moment I'd like us to look back and think about just what an incredible thing you all had a hand in creating."

Wilman mentioned that back in 2002, Jane Root allowed him to "reinvigorate a car show and get an audience of three million."

"What you all ended up making was one of the most iconic programs in TV history, a show about cars that went global, won countless awards, was devoured by non-car fans and ended up in the Guinness Book of Records," Wilman wrote.

The show's executive producer elaborated on both the good and bad experiences that he and everyone at "Top Gear" endured. He expressed gratitude to everyone who worked behind the scenes of the popular BBC program.

"The work ethic never slipped, the desire for everyone in this dysfunctional family to do right by the show never faltered," Wilman wrote. "Jeremy, Richard and James, as the visible tip of the iceberg, got most of the attention and praise, but you all in your own fields had such an immense hand in weaving this unforgettable tapestry."

Wilman emphasized that he was just merely one of the "guardians of Top Gear," adding that he, alongside Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May, "were only part of the show's history, not the whole of it."

"Anyway, when you're feeling low in your working day at any point, look around at some of the crap on TV, then have a think about Top Gear, 2002- 2015, and say to yourself: 'I made that,'" Wilman wrote. "A big, big, big thank you, which will never be enough."

According to Hardigree, Wilman's leaked email was proof that the BBC planned to continue production of "Top Gear" in the future. In addition, Ben Collins, who once played the show's tame racing driver known as The Stig, also received this email; Hardigree noted that he had public fallout with the show before his departure.

The departure of Wilman, along with Clarkson's contract not being renewed, has disappointed many "Top Gear" fans, with some of them going on social media to express their frustrations. In addition, BBC News reported that British police are looking into death threats allegedly made against the broadcaster's director general, Tony Hall, who was behind the decision to let the controversial presenter and journalist go.

"Police in Westminster are investigating an allegation of threats to kill," a Met Police spokesman said. "The allegation was reported to police on Wednesday, 25 March. The threat was made by email."

According to BBC News, Hall made the decision not to renew Clarkson's contract after an incident between him and producer Oisin Tymon occurred, insisting that "a line has been crossed." Even Tymon has faced online threats and abuse due to his involvement in the dispute.

"Clarkson asked fans to show restraint," BBC News reported after Clarkson learned of the online harassment aimed at Tymon.

    Most Popular
  • Is 'The Last Supper' worth watching? Audience and critics weigh in

    Is 'The Last Supper' worth watching? Audience and critics weigh in

    Faith-based films often receive mixed reactions, and The Last Supper is no exception. The movie attempts to bring a fresh perspective to one of the most iconic moments in Christian history, but does it succeed? Some reviews from critics and audiences provide insight into its strengths and shortcomings.

  • ‘The Chosen’ Season 5: The darkest season yet—What to know before watching

    The wait is over—The Chosen is back with its fifth season, and this time, things are getting intense. The new episodes dive straight into the final days of Jesus’ life, covering some of the most emotional and dramatic moments in the Bible. If you’ve been following the series, you already know that The Chosen isn’t just about retelling familiar stories—it’s about bringing them to life in a way that feels real.

  • Massacres in Syria: Over 1,000 dead, including Christians and Alawites

    Syria’s coastal regions have been devastated by a series of massacres, with reports indicating that over 1,000 people—many from Christian and Alawite communities—have been killed in brutal attacks. Entire families have been wiped out, and survivors are fleeing in search of safety as sectarian violence escalates.

  • Kim Sae-ron and Wheesung: The tragic irony of Korean society and the principles of happiness

    Not long ago, the media was in an uproar over actress Kim Sae-ron’s passing. Just months before, the same people who had relentlessly criticized her for her DUI incident were now expressing sympathy, saying, "The world was too harsh on her." The irony is impossible to ignore.

  • Newsboys move forward as a quartet after Michael Tait’s departure

    After more than a decade as the lead singer of the Newsboys, Michael Tait has officially parted ways with the band, marking a significant shift in the Christian rock group’s lineup. The remaining members—Jeff Frankenstein, Jody Davis, Duncan Phillips, and Adam Agee—have assured fans that they will continue forward, embracing a new season of music and ministry.

Top Stories