Jeremy Clarkson Supported by Fans After Emotional Top Gear Tribute
Clarkson Pays Tribute to “Television Genius” Andy Wilman
Jeremy Clarkson has shared an emotional message in memory of his longtime collaborator and friend Andy Wilman, the man many Top Gear fans fondly call “the fourth member” of the trio.
In a heartfelt video posted to Instagram, the Clarkson’s Farm host reflected on the pair’s decades-long partnership — from the early days of Top Gear to their rebirth with The Grand Tour.
“I just want to talk, if I may, for a moment, about Top Gear,” Clarkson began, his voice thick with emotion. “It started out as a regional programme about cars and became, in quite short order, the most successful, most-watched show in the world. Every week, 350 million people tuned in.”
Remembering the Origins of a Global Phenomenon
Clarkson reminisced about the show’s humble beginnings, describing how Wilman — then a producer — helped transform Top Gear from a local motoring show into a worldwide hit.
“The man responsible for it is a television genius,” he said. “Andy was there right at the beginning when he had to pay audience members out of his own pocket a fiver to stay to the bitter end because they were so bored.”
He continued, “He was there when we ended it in Zimbabwe. He had to deal with James, Richard, and me, with Ofcom, with the BBC — he just ran the whole thing. And when the fracas happened, he had to start all over again in a broom cupboard with one assistant and build it up from scratch.”
A Legacy Beyond Top Gear
Wilman, who also co-created The Grand Tour, is now working as an editor on Clarkson’s Farm. Clarkson praised his friend’s new book, Mr Wilman’s Motoring Adventure, calling it “fantastic.”
“I’m just overflowing with joy that he’s put it all on paper,” Clarkson said. “So here’s a suggestion: after you’ve read my new book, The Farmer’s Dog, do get this one. It really is worth your while.”
Fans Flood Clarkson With Support
Following Clarkson’s post, Wilman himself commented modestly:
“I do NOT deserve that much praise (mind you, I’ll take a bit of it). You were the one responsible for making that show a success, and everyone who worked on it will say the same.”
Fans quickly rallied around Clarkson in the comments, expressing gratitude for the memories Top Gear created.
One fan wrote:
“It was three blokes doing what blokes do. We all felt like we knew you and were part of your circle. Thank you for the memories!”
Another added:
“You and Andy made Sunday nights iconic. Top Gear will always be the greatest show ever made.”
Even Strictly Come Dancing star Thomas Skinner joined in:
“I love you Mr. Clarkson and I love you Mr. Wilman. You are absolute legends that made my Sunday evenings the best when I was younger. I love cars because of Top Gear. Best TV show of all time. Bosh.”
A Tribute That Struck a Chord
For many fans, Clarkson’s message was more than nostalgia — it was a reminder of how Top Gear changed television forever. What began as three men talking about cars became a cultural touchstone for millions, thanks to a friendship that turned work into history.
As Clarkson summed up, “It really was a very important show.”
