Grand Tour Unveils New Hosts: Influencers Join the Lineup
The popular automotive series, The Grand Tour, has announced a new lineup of hosts following the departure of its original trio—Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May. In a surprising twist, the new presenters are all recognized influencers from the online realm, marking a fresh direction for the show.
New Hosts for The Grand Tour
Joining the show are:
- Francis Bourgeois—an enthusiastic trainspotter known for his vibrant persona.
- James Engelsman and Thomas Holland—creators of the successful YouTube channel, Throttle House, specializing in automotive content.
These new hosts are excited about their roles, bringing their passion for cars to the forefront of this beloved series. Their hiring reflects an evolution in The Grand Tour, aiming to attract a new audience while retaining the core spirit of the show.
Context of the Change
Jeremy Clarkson and his co-stars officially left The Grand Tour in 2024, two years prior to the announcement of the new lineup. Clarkson emphasized the need for hosts to have a deep-rooted knowledge of cars, dismissing the idea of selecting popular figures who only have a casual liking for automobiles. He expressed that genuine passion is essential for those taking on the mantle of presenting.
Clarkson noted, “It has to be your life… It has to be all-consuming.” He stressed the importance of competence in the automotive field, suggesting that new hosts should possess extensive knowledge, akin to that of motoring journalists.
Reactions from the New Hosts
Francis Bourgeois admitted that stepping into the role would initially be daunting, humorously likening it to “Mo Farah running in Size 14 wellies.” Meanwhile, James Engelsman remarked on working closely with Thomas Holland for almost a decade, indicating that Bourgeois might just be the missing ingredient for their adventure-filled car show.
Thomas Holland lightened the mood with a quip about the challenges of taking on such a prestigious role, stating, “only a moron would take that job.” Their candid responses hint at both excitement and awareness of the pressure that comes with stepping into the shoes of Clarkson, Hammond, and May.
The Legacy of The Grand Tour
Launched on Prime Video, The Grand Tour serves as a modern continuation of the trio’s previous success with Top Gear. The original Top Gear series was replaced after its conclusion in 2015, setting the stage for The Grand Tour’s debut.
The series has since gained a massive following, with fans eagerly awaiting its return. The new direction under these fresh hosts will likely captivate both longtime viewers and potential new audiences.
As The Grand Tour prepares for its next chapter, the integration of influencers as hosts marks a notable shift within the automotive entertainment landscape. The upcoming episodes promise to deliver the thrilling content fans have come to expect, with a new edge brought by Bourgeois, Engelsman, and Holland.
