Somerset TV Host Joins Amazon’s New Grand Tour Series
Francis Bourgeois, born Luke Magnus Nicolson, is set to join the ranks of presenters for the new series of The Grand Tour on Amazon Prime Video. This popular show is known for its engaging automotive content, originally hosted by Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May.
Background of Francis Bourgeois
At just 25 years old, Bourgeois grew up in Somerset, England, where his fascination with trains began. He developed this keen interest in childhood, drawing attention from family as early as age three. A pivotal moment occurred when he visited the Peco factory at Pecorama in Devon at four; his grandmother gifted him a model railway set, setting the stage for his lifelong passion.
Bourgeois moved to Frome at the age of seven, where, despite a quieter railway scene, he continued to nurture his love for transport, particularly freight trains found near Whatley Quarry in the Mendip Hills.
The Grand Tour Presentation Team
Francis Bourgeois will co-host The Grand Tour with James Engelsman and Thomas Holland. Engelsman and Holland are known for their popular YouTube channel, Throttle House, which boasts over 3.35 million subscribers. Together, this new presenting trio will embark on a six-part series that challenges them to navigate some of the world’s most difficult terrains.
Challenges Ahead
Stepping into this prominent role, Bourgeois acknowledges the pressure of succeeding the original hosts. He humorously reflected on the adage “big shoes to fill,” likening his challenge to “Mo Farah running in size 14 wellies — it’ll be a little awkward at first, perhaps blister-inducing, but will overall be an interesting watch.”
Social Media Presence and Professional Expertise
Beyond his role in television, Bourgeois has cultivated a strong social media presence, amassing nearly six million followers through his train-spotting videos. His engineering background, including work experience at Rolls-Royce, adds further depth to his profile as a presenter.
Anticipation for the New Series
The new lineup of The Grand Tour was announced on February 5, 2026, in a video featuring Clarkson. This upcoming series is set to premiere in 2026, bringing fresh energy and excitement to the beloved franchise.
Quote from Production Executive
Tara Erer, Head of UK & Northern Europe Originals, expressed enthusiasm about the new team. She stated, “The Grand Tour is Prime Video’s most watched unscripted UK Original series globally, and finding the right successors was no small feat – but we’ve absolutely struck gold.” She believes that Bourgeois, Engelsman, and Holland will bring distinctive talents to the show.
As fans await the premiere, the anticipation builds for what promises to be an exhilarating exploration of automotive adventure with the new Grand Tour presenters.
