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Top Gear host Jeremy Clarkson has been suspended by the BBC following an incident with a producer on the show. This marks yet another controversy in his colorful career but it remains to be seen if Clarkson can bounce back from this setback.
Here’s what you need to know:
1. The Show Has Been Canceled, For This Week
Wanted: new presenter for Top Gear. Applicant should be old, badly dressed and pedantic but capable of getting to work on time.
The show will not be broadcast this week. This week’s episode was going to show Clarkson along with his co-hosts James May and Richard Hammond in Dover, England, at the legendary Lydden Hill racetrack. The show’s special guest was due to be English soccer legend and all-round Mr. Nice Guy, Gary Lineker.
I don’t think I’m ever meant to appear on Top Gear!
2. The BBC Described the Incident as ‘Fracas’
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The BBC described the incident involving Clarkson has “fracas.” The beeb added that it would “be making no further comment at this time.” The show’s executive producer, Andy Wilman, separately had told the BBC that the last 12 months have been “an annus horribillis” for Top Gear.
3. After a String of Racist, Sexist & Homophobic Incidents, Clarkson Was on His Last Warning
It had been previously reported that Clarkson was on his last warning with the BBC following a string of incidents. In the days leading up to his suspension, Clarkson was embroiled in another controversy when he made fun of people who have to travel by bus. This led to a war of words with English politician Michael Daugher who said that Clarkson was “basically an idiot.” The host replied on Twitter by saying he was glad that Daugher didn’t watch Top Gear, because “We don’t make it for people who wear pink ties.”
4. He Was About to Sign a New Contract With the BBC
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Clarkson has been host of Top Gear since 2002. On March 8, the Guardian reported that Clarkson was close to signing a new contract with the BBC for the show. That same piece said that Clarkson’s production company had turned a profit of $900,000 in 2014.
5. ‘Top Gear’ Is One the BBC’s Most Valuable Assets
Top Gear is one of the BBC’s most valuable program in terms of syndication and merchandising. In the United Kingdom, the show is one of the most highly rated.
