Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May make BBC Top Gear 'return'

Rumors have been swirling about a possible return of Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May to BBC’s Top Gear, the iconic motoring show that turned the trio into household names. But what’s the real story behind these headlines? Here’s what actually happened.

In early 2025, Richard Hammond and James May made a surprise appearance at the old Top Gear studio at Dunsfold Aerodrome. The visit was filled with nostalgia as the two former presenters walked through the familiar set, shared stories from their time on the show, and even took a lap around the famous test track. The footage was shared on James May’s YouTube channel and through DriveTribe, delighting fans who have long missed the chemistry and banter that defined their era of Top Gear.

However, this visit was not the start of a new series or a formal return to the BBC. It was simply a look back—a chance for Hammond and May to reminisce about the show that made them global stars. There was no filming for a BBC broadcast, and no announcement of future episodes featuring the original trio.

Notably absent from the reunion was Jeremy Clarkson. While Clarkson has publicly stated that he believes Top Gear could use a revival, especially given the rapidly changing landscape of the automotive world, he has also made it clear that he has no intention of returning as a presenter. Clarkson has cited his lack of enthusiasm for electric cars and his desire to move on to other projects as reasons for staying away.

The BBC officially placed Top Gear on indefinite hold following the serious accident involving presenter Freddie Flintoff in 2022. Since then, there have been no concrete plans to revive the show, and certainly no indication that Clarkson, Hammond, and May will return as hosts.

While fans were treated to a nostalgic trip down memory lane by Hammond and May, there is no truth to the rumors of a full Top Gear return featuring the beloved trio. Their visit was a one-off, unscripted reunion, not a reboot or new series. For now, the era of Clarkson, Hammond, and May on BBC Top Gear remains a fond memory in motoring television history.