After saying goodbye to audiences with the emotional finale of The Grand Tour last September, Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May are set to reunite for a brand new show titled The Not Very Grand Tour, expected to hit screens on April 18, 2025. This exciting announcement brings renewed hope to fans eager to see the dynamic trio once again dazzled by motorsport adventures.
Defining moments from the trio's long-running partnership began on BBC's Top Gear back in 2002, continuing with The Grand Tour on Amazon Prime Video, which debuted in 2016 after their departure from Top Gear. The last special, One For The Road, served as the bittersweet culmination of their two-decade-long television legacy together.
The upcoming series, The Not Very Grand Tour, is described by the British Board of Film Classification as "a motoring comedy documentary series". According to the BBFC, the first episode, titled The Glory and The Power, sees the hosts celebrating the combustion engine by reminiscing through footage from their previously thrilling escapades and inspirational test drives.
Phil Churchward, known for directing previous shows of both Top Gear and The Grand Tour, will helm this new production. Fans can expect to see the trio reflecting on their automotive journeys, embracing nostalgia and humor along the way. Industry details suggest this segment was filmed back in July 2024, indicating a long-awaited revival for the show.
Despite claims from Clarkson last year—when he suggested their prior finale would mark the end of their onscreen partnership—many have expressed excitement about the reunion. "This is probably the best way to keep these three together," commented one enthusiastic viewer on social media, indicating the show's ability to forge bonds with nostalgia.
There is more to this reunion than just the new show. Following the wrap-up of The Grand Tour, Clarkson recently surprised fans by appearing on Car SOS, where he helped Tim Shaw and Fuzz Townshend restore a classic Land Rover Discovery Series 1 for another deserving driver. "He genuinely cared about the wellbeing of both the team, and most important the car's owner," Shaw remarked about Clarkson's motivating presence during filming.
Meanwhile, during their recent visit to the old Top Gear studios, Richard and James reflected on their years of filming. "This is where we assembled, worked on scripts, had arguments. I feel funny. I feel funny as well. I felt really odd being here," said Hammond, recalling the powerful memories contained within those walls, ten years after the show had concluded.
The trio's return is undoubtedly wrapped up all the sentiments of their loyal fanbase yearning for the familiar charm they bring to motoring television. Following their long history with Top Gear, which concluded its own run when Clarkson was ousted from the BBC due to controversies, it is no wonder loyal supporters cherish the group's collaborative spirit.
Despite the professional hardships they faced, Clarkson, Hammond, and May have navigated their careers with grace and humor. Their last special on The Grand Tour, which showcased their travels through Zimbabwe, emphasized their nostalgic bond with both cars and each other. Although ages have crept upon the beloved hosts and some even joked about them being "too old and fat" for the adventures they once thrived upon, the chemistry among them remains undisputed.
Viewers excited for the upcoming show have conveyed appreciation for any reunion material featuring their favorite personalities. "I wouldn't rule it out, but you do have to bear in mind we are all getting on owing to age," May had once said pragmatically about future collaborations. Fans will delight at the prospect of more adventures, showcasing venerated cars and perhaps even humorous commentary from the hosts.
The buzz surrounding the The Not Very Grand Tour reflects the deep-rooted devotion of audiences who have indulged willingly for over 22 years. Reuniting the trio for yet another thrilling venture encourages everyone to celebrate their commitment to motorsport and camaraderie, ensuring automotive enthusiasts have something exciting to share from April onwards.