Welcome to the Jeremy Clarkson Fan Site! A site put together by fans of the man himself.
Jeremy Clarkson ( born April, 11 1960 ) is a prominent figure in the world of automotive journalism and television, best known for his work as a presenter on the BBC TV show "Top Gear." Born on April 11, 1960, in Doncaster, South Yorkshire, England, Clarkson's career began not in cars, but in journalism after training with the Rotherham Advertiser newspaper. His distinctive style—witty, critical, and often controversial—soon became his trademark.
Clarkson's early career was marked by a transition from local journalism to larger publications. He wrote for a number of regional newspapers before making a shift to motoring publications, notably contributing to the performance car magazine "Performance Car." His engaging and often humorous writing style caught the attention of the public and led to more significant opportunities.
Arguably, Clarkson's major break came when he became one of the presenters of "Top Gear," initially joining the program in 1988. The show was a modest motoring program at the time, but Clarkson’s arrival marked the beginning of a transformation. His approach to car reviews combined detailed technical knowledge with a degree of showmanship and irreverence not previously associated with motoring shows. This novel take helped to skyrocket both his and the program's popularity.
Throughout the 1990s and into the early 2000s, Clarkson helped propel "Top Gear" to become one of the most watched TV shows in the UK and garnered a significant international following. Under his stewardship, the show evolved from a straightforward motoring magazine format to a more varied and entertaining spectacle that included car reviews, challenges, timed laps, and celebrity guests.
Clarkson's style was not without controversy. His blunt, and sometimes offensive, remarks led to numerous complaints and occasional friction with co-presenters and guests. Despite these controversies, or perhaps because of them, Clarkson remained a highly influential figure in broadcasting. His opinion on cars and anything related to automotive industry often shaped public perceptions and industry trends.
In March 2015, Clarkson's career at "Top Gear" came to an abrupt end when his contract was not renewed by the BBC following a disciplinary incident involving a producer. However, his career did not stall; Clarkson, along with co-presenters Richard Hammond and James May, signed a deal with Amazon Prime to produce a new automotive show called "The Grand Tour." Debuting in November 2016, the show carried over much of the high-energy, globe-trotting adventure and humor that had been successful on "Top Gear."
In 2018 he took over as host of "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?", bringing his characteristic wit and charisma to the classic quiz show. With his background in television and journalism, Clarkson infused the show with a fresh dynamism while maintaining respect for its traditional format. His approachable persona and sharp humor have helped revitalize interest in the show, attracting a broader audience and reaffirming its status as a beloved staple of television quiz shows.
JC ventured into agrarian life with his TV series "Clarkson's Farm," which debuted on Amazon Prime Video in 2021. The series follows Clarkson as he attempts to run a 1,000-acre farm in the Cotswolds, despite having no prior farming experience. The show provides an honest, humorous look at the challenges of modern farming, from uncooperative weather to complex agricultural machinery, showcasing Clarkson's journey of successes, failures, and learning alongside his charismatic farmhand, Kaleb Cooper.
Beyond television, Clarkson has also made his mark as an author and columnist, writing regularly for newspapers such as The Sunday Times and The Sun. His articles, like his television presentations, mix personal anecdotes with assessments of various vehicles, alongside broader opinions on motoring and public policy.
Today, Clarkson's influence extends beyond the confines of television and print. He is a significant figure in cultural discussions about cars, entertainment, and even broader social issues. His career path, marked by both significant successes and notable controversies, reflects his complex persona—one that can both endear and alienate audiences. Regardless of individual opinions of him, Clarkson’s impact on automotive journalism and television is undeniable, making him a figure of significant interest in both media, motor and now farming industries.
If you love Supercars, check out some links to where you can drive Supercars at the ex-Top Gear venue 'Dunsfold Park' and the current 'Eboladrome' venue from 'The Grand Tour':
Dunsfold Park Supercar Driving Experiences
The Eboladrome Supercar Driving Experiences
Please note, these experiences are not affiliated with Jeremy or any of the TV shows he has presented on.