After a seven-year run on Amazon Prime, the beloved motoring show concludes with its final special set in Zimbabwe, premiering in 2024.
Though we’ve seen it coming, lots of sadness is surrounding Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May, who are taking their final bow on The Grand Tour. The famous trio recently wrapped up filming their last special in Zimbabwe, marking the end of an era for fans of their unique blend of automotive expertise and humor. Set to air in 2024, this final episode on Amazon Prime is sure to be a bittersweet moment for viewers who’ve followed their journey since the Top Gear days.
Clarkson, Hammond, and May have been the heart and soul of car show entertainment since they started hosting Top Gear back in 2003. Their chemistry and antics turned the show into a global sensation. However, their time on Top Gear was not without its controversies, the most notable being Clarkson’s exit in 2015 following a clash with a producer. Not long after, Hammond and May also left the show, and the trio made a grand entrance into the world of streaming with The Grand Tour on Amazon Prime.
The Grand Tour carried the spirit of Top Gear into a new format, initially mirroring the magazine-style segments before transitioning into feature-length specials set in exotic locales. These specials, ranging from Scotland to Zimbabwe, have been a staple for fans seeking a mix of breathtaking landscapes, high-octane car chases, and the hosts’ signature banter. The show’s first season was among the top performers for Amazon Original series, as reported by Reuters in 2018.
But as the curtain falls on The Grand Tour, there’s talk of a new beginning. The BBC reports that options for a revamped version of the show are being explored. While details are still under wraps, this suggests that the spirit of The Grand Tour might continue in a new form.
The timing of this farewell coincides with the recent announcement that Top Gear will also not be returning for the foreseeable future, following Flintoff’s accident while filming. This leaves a notable void in the car show landscape that The Grand Tour and Top Gear once filled.
Despite saying goodbye to the show, Clarkson and May aren’t stepping away from the limelight. Clarkson’s “Clarkson’s Farm” is gearing up for a third season, winning hearts with its mix of farming challenges and Clarkson’s distinctive humor. May, on the other hand, continues to explore the world in his “Our Man In…” series.
Indeed, from racing across deserts to navigating political gaffes, Clarkson, Hammond, and May have left an indelible mark on car culture and entertainment. Their final journey in Zimbabwe will not just be a farewell tour, but a celebration of an unforgettable era in television history.
