Francis Bourgeois Hosts Amazon’s ‘The Grand Tour’ Series
Prime Video is preparing for a new chapter of its acclaimed automotive series, The Grand Tour. The show has announced that Francis Bourgeois will be the host, alongside James Engelsman and Thomas Holland. This trio of presenters, notable for their youthful energy, comes from the popular YouTube channel Throttle House.
New Hosts for The Grand Tour
The announcement of Bourgeois, Engelsman, and Holland as hosts was initially reported by The Sun last year. This new team is significantly younger than the previous hosts—Jeremy Clarkson, James May, and Richard Hammond—who left the show two years ago. The previous team was known for their memorable moments and adventures, but the transition to a fresh lineup aims to capture a new audience.
Production Changes
The Grand Tour is currently produced by Studio Lambert, known for successful shows like The Traitors. This marks a shift from its former production company, Expectation. Amazon stated that Season 7 will honor the legacy of the series while also steering it into a new era.
Filming Locations and Content
In an exciting development, the new season will feature adventures in Angola, Malaysia, and California. The hosts will test drive a range of vehicles while engaging in various challenges, showcasing both their skills and personalities.
Hosts Backgrounds
- Francis Bourgeois: Known for his viral trainspotting videos, Bourgeois has gained millions of followers across social media platforms. He previously hosted a trainspotting series on Channel 4.
- James Engelsman and Thomas Holland: The duo runs Throttle House, a YouTube channel that attracts millions of viewers by reviewing and testing cars.
The Gamble of Choosing Content Creators
Amazon’s decision to choose content creators over established names like Clarkson may seem risky. However, this trend reflects a growing inclination in the British TV industry toward YouTube stars. Recent discussions among producers indicate that there is a strong interest in leveraging the talent and audience of these digital creators.
Reactions to the Transition
Francis Bourgeois commented on the transition with humor, likening it to “Mo Farah running in Size 14 wellies.” He acknowledged the challenge ahead but expressed excitement about the opportunity. Tara Erer, Head of UK & Northern Europe Originals at Prime Video, expressed her enthusiasm for the new hosts. She indicated that their diverse talents and energy would propel the series into exciting new directions while maintaining its adventurous spirit.
The Future of The Grand Tour
As the world eagerly awaits the release of the new season, the production team remains focused on delivering a captivating viewing experience. Executive producers include notable names such as Phil Churchward and Tim Harcourt, ensuring that the series continues to engage its audience effectively.
The Grand Tour is poised to set a new benchmark in automotive programming, combining the essence of adventure with the fresh perspectives of its new hosts.
