7 / 10 (based on 73 reviews)
Comedy, personal opinions and celebrity guests.
Genre: Comedy, Talk-Show
Main Cast: Jeremy Clarkson, Alan Clark, Charlie Dimmock, Alan Titchmarsh
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
3 seasons, 27 episodes, 30-minute runtime
Shows Most Like Clarkson (1998)
It’s Clarkson on TV (2021)
7 / 10 (based on 122 reviews)
A new show hosted by the English broadcaster Jeremy Clarkson, best known for the car shows Top Gear and The Grand Tour, where he reviews and offers commentary on an amusing compilation of this year’s TV bits.
Genre: Comedy
Main Cast: Jeremy Clarkson, Stage West
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 4 episodes, 45.0-minute runtime
The Grand Tour (2016)
8.7 / 10 (based on 77624 reviews)
Follow Jeremy, Richard, and James, as they embark on an adventure across the globe, driving new and exciting automobiles from manufacturers all over the world.
Genre: Comedy, Talk-Show
Main Cast: Jeremy Clarkson, James May, Richard Hammond, Abbie Eaton
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
4 seasons, 42 episodes, 60.0-minute runtime
Clarkson’s Farm (2021)
9 / 10 (based on 45731 reviews)
Follow Jeremy Clarkson as he attempts to run a farm in the countryside.
Genre: Documentary, Reality-TV
Main Cast: Jeremy Clarkson, Kaleb Cooper, Charlie Ireland, Gerald Cooper
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
2 seasons, 9 episodes, 45.0-minute runtime
In the world of television, certain shows manage to carve out a niche for themselves, becoming more than just a blip on the radar of pop culture. “Clarkson” is one such show. Premiering in 1998, it brought Jeremy Clarkson, a name synonymous with motoring journalism, into the living rooms of millions. Let’s get to the heart of what made “Clarkson” stand out, without any unnecessary fluff.
The Man Behind the Wheel
Jeremy Clarkson is a figure who divides opinion like few others in the media. Known for his unapologetic and often controversial opinions, Clarkson’s journey from a local reporter to one of the most recognizable faces in automotive journalism is a story of grit, wit, and a deep-seated love for cars. Before “Clarkson” hit the airwaves, Jeremy had already made a name for himself as a writer and presenter, but this show offered him a new platform to share his passion and insights with a broader audience.
The Format
At its core, “Clarkson” was a motoring show, but to label it as just that would be an oversimplification. Each episode was a blend of car reviews, interviews, and features that explored various aspects of automotive culture. What set it apart was Jeremy’s unique presentation style. His approach was straightforward, often blunt, filled with humor, and unafraid to critique the most revered of cars. This was not a show about the technical minutiae of automobiles; it was about the experience of driving and the joy (or despair) that certain cars could bring.
Car Reviews
The car reviews were the backbone of “Clarkson”. Jeremy had the uncanny ability to dissect a car’s performance, design, and practicality in a way that was accessible to both car enthusiasts and the average viewer. His reviews were not just about how fast a car could go or its specifications; they were about how these machines fit into the broader tapestry of life. Whether it was a supercar or a family sedan, Clarkson’s reviews were always more than just about the car.
Features and Interviews
“Clarkson” was also known for its features and interviews, which ranged from the educational to the outright absurd. Jeremy’s interviews with celebrities, industry insiders, and even politicians were never dull. His knack for asking unexpected questions and his often irreverent demeanor kept both his guests and the audience on their toes.
Memorable Moments
Over its run, “Clarkson” had its fair share of memorable moments. One such instance was Jeremy’s attempt to destroy a Toyota Hilux, showcasing the vehicle’s indestructibility. This segment went beyond a simple car review; it was an adventure, a testament to the resilience of a machine. Then there was the time when Clarkson, in his typical fashion, converted a Mercedes S-Class into a “luxury yacht,” driving (or sailing) it into a body of water. These moments were emblematic of the show’s willingness to push boundaries and think outside the conventional box of automotive journalism.
The Impact
The influence of “Clarkson” extended beyond its immediate audience. Jeremy’s opinions often swayed public perception about certain cars, and his critiques were known to send car manufacturers back to the drawing board. The show also played a significant role in cementing Clarkson’s status as a motoring authority. His style—direct, humorous, and sometimes controversial—set a new standard for automotive journalism.
The Legacy
Though “Clarkson” ended, its legacy lives on. Jeremy Clarkson went on to host “Top Gear,” bringing much of the ethos that made “Clarkson” successful to a global audience. The show’s format, blending insightful reviews with high-octane adventures and a dash of humor, has influenced a generation of car shows.
In conclusion, “Clarkson” was more than just a TV show about cars. It was a cultural phenomenon that changed the landscape of automotive journalism. Its blend of insightful commentary, humor, and the occasional absurdity, all delivered in Jeremy Clarkson’s distinctive style, set it apart from anything else on television at the time. While it might not have been everyone’s cup of tea, its impact and legacy are undeniable. “Clarkson” wasn’t just about the cars; it was about the joy, frustration, and sheer absurdity of motoring. And for that, it will always hold a special place in the hearts of its audience.