Jimmy Carr ‘in talks’ with BBC bosses to host Top Gear

The comedian, 53, is said to be under consideration as the BBC explores the future of the long-running motoring programme, which has not aired since it was taken off screens following Freddie Flintoff’s crash during filming in 2022.

According to reports, production teams are working on plans for a new era of the show with a fresh presenting line-up.

A source told The Sun: “Production have their sights set on Jimmy; he’s the ideal host to take the show into a new era and revive Top Gear.

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“He’s keen to work on something mainstream after spending so many years fronting comedy panel shows.”

The insider added: “He’s a real car buff, too, so it would be a passion project. Casting directors are now working to find talent to join him in the new-look ensemble.”

The source continued: “Bosses are considering a woman and online celebrities to complement Jimmy.”

The BBC has not confirmed the reported plans.

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A BBC Studios spokesperson said: “We have no update on the TV show and we don’t comment on speculation.”

Top Gear was rested after Flintoff suffered serious injuries in a crash while filming at Dunsfold Park Aerodrome in Surrey in December 2022. The programme’s future has been the subject of speculation since then.

Carr has previously spoken about the possibility of presenting the motoring show.

In comments highlighted by the reports, he said: “If it comes up, yeah, call me! Call me straight away. I would do that in a heartbeat. I think it’s maybe the best job in television.”

The reported reboot would follow previous versions of the programme fronted by Oxfordshire farmer Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May, and later by Flintoff, Chris Harris and Paddy McGuinness.