For the first time in television history Top Gear is aired without Jeremy Clarkson. The 75-minute special was compiled from footage which was shot before Clarkson left the show.Surprisingly BBC Two show made no reference to their departure, nor the circumstances.
“All that remains for us to say is thank you very much for watching. Goodbye,” Hammond said at the end of the episode after which the end credits then rolled in silence.
Hammond tweeted: “Can’t believe that one life has room to accommodate the first and the last steps of that incredible adventure. Thanks for your company.”
At the beginning of the show May welcomed viewers by saying: “Hello, and welcome to what’s left of Top Gear.” The show format featured May and Hammond presenting in an empty studio, without Clarkson or the usual live audience.
“Elephant in the room”, a 10ft plastic replica elephant which the show’s makers borrowed from a hull design company was used to replace Jeremy Clarkson.
After the episode ended, Clarkson tweeted: “Many many thanks for all your support and encouragement over the years. So sad and sorry it’s ended like this.”
James May and Richard Hammond also turned down their contracts to return to the show. BBC announced Chris Evans as replacement for Jeremy Clarkson in the next Top Gear.
