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tmarshconnors · 30 days

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The End of an Era

There are some moments in life that leave a lasting impact on us, not because they were groundbreaking or world-changing, but because they brought us joy, laughter, and memories that shaped the way we see things. For many of us, Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May have done just that whether it was through their antics, their banter, or their undeniably chaotic chemistry behind the wheel.

From the early days of Top Gear in 2002 to the roaring success of The Grand Tour, this trio has been a constant source of entertainment, and with their journey coming to a close this September, it’s hard not to feel a twinge of sadness.

But as the saying goes, “Don’t be sad it’s over, be happy it happened.” And what a ride it’s been. The Beginning of an Era: Top Gear (2002)

When Top Gear relaunched in 2002 with Jeremy Clarkson at the helm, no one could have predicted the cultural phenomenon it would become.

Clarkson’s brash, unapologetic style combined with Richard Hammond’s charm and James May’s methodical approach quickly turned the show from a run-of-the-mill car program into an adventure that was as much about the presenters as it was about the cars. It wasn’t just about reviewing vehicles anymore; it was about pushing them to their limits, taking ridiculous road trips across continents, and engaging in epic challenges that often ended in disaster (or at least, near disaster).

Week after week, we were glued to the screen, not necessarily to learn about the latest Ferrari or Lamborghini, but to see what absurd escapade Clarkson, Hammond, and May had gotten themselves into this time. Their chemistry was undeniable each one brought something different to the table, and together they created something magical.

Top Gear wasn’t just a show about cars, it was a show about friendship, adventure, and the art of pushing boundaries.

After a controversial departure from Top Gear, Clarkson, Hammond, and May made their triumphant return in 2016 with The Grand Tour. With a new platform on Amazon Prime, they had more creative freedom than ever before, and they took full advantage of it. The production values skyrocketed, the locations became more exotic, and the challenges even more outrageous. The Grand Tour was like Top Gear on steroids—a bigger, bolder version of everything we loved about the original show.

But at its core, it was still about three men who loved cars, who loved teasing each other, and who loved embarking on ridiculous adventures together. From traversing the Namib Desert in beach buggies to building their own boats in Vietnam, Clarkson, Hammond, and May took us along for the ride once again, reminding us why we fell in love with their brand of chaos in the first place.

And now, in September 2024, the journey is coming to an end. After over two decades of laughter, crashes, road trips, and heart-pounding moments, it’s hard to believe that the adventures of Clarkson, Hammond, and May are drawing to a close. Their legacy, however, will live on—not just in the episodes of Top Gear and The Grand Tour, but in the way they’ve changed the way we see cars, travel, and friendship.

Their unique blend of humour, wit, and genuine camaraderie has been a breath of fresh air in the world of automotive entertainment, and they’ve inspired a generation of car enthusiasts who see the world of motoring not just as a hobby, but as a way of life.

From Clarkson’s larger-than-life persona to Hammond’s unyielding optimism and May’s meticulousness, they’ve shown us that cars are more than just machines—they’re a means of exploration, a way to connect with others, and sometimes, a way to create lifelong memories.

As I reflect on the countless hours spent watching them race across deserts, destroy caravans, and try (and often fail) to complete seemingly impossible challenges, I can’t help but feel grateful. Grateful for the laughter, the excitement, and the moments of pure joy that Clarkson, Hammond, and May have given us over the years.

I find it very hard to come to the realisation that I was nine years old when I started watching them. Now heading towards thirty two in March next year.

So, as their chapter comes to a close, I’ll be hitting the replay button. I’ll be rewatching Top Gear from 2002, reminiscing about the early days when everything felt fresh and new. Then, I’ll dive into The Grand Tour, reliving the adventures that took them to the farthest corners of the earth. It’s not just about reliving the past—it’s about celebrating everything they’ve given us.

In the words of Dr. Seuss, “Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened.” And I’m smiling, because Clarkson, Hammond, and May gave us something truly special. They took us on a wild ride, and even though that ride is coming to an end, the memories will last forever.

To the trio who changed the way we see cars and reminded us that life is better with a bit of chaos—thank you.