ITV, Netflix in Race to Sign ‘Top Gear’ Trio for New Show

OFF-ROAD vehicles featuring in the last ever episode of Top Gear presented by Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May are on display at the National Motor Museum. The race to sign the hosts is now nearing its conclusion, with the two entertainment platforms in the lead, while Hulu is also said to be one of the contenders.

Top Gear generated around £145 million revenue for the BBC’s commercial arm BBC Worldwide a year ago, making it easily the broadcaster’s most lucrative show. Clarkson has been the show’s host since 1988 but did not host any seasons from 1999 until 2002 when the show was re-launched.

If the former Top Gear presenters plan to go head to head with Chris Evans in their ex- show, which rumors seem to support, ITV can be the perfect broadcasting network to do just that.

WME is understood to be among those advising the threesome as they finalize their next chapter. During the past decade “Top Gear” became one of the BBC’s most-watched and most widely exported programs.

Netflix sounds like a great deal for Clarkson, Hammond and May to continue their motoring show antics, but there’s a lil’ problem with moving across the pond. The show’s longtime producer, Andy Wilman, would also be joining the trio for the new automotive show.

Variety also reports Netflix may have put in a “sizable offer” of multiple seasons to pick up the show.

The final episode of Top Gear featuring the current hosts will screen on June 28, the BBC says. It is therefore obvious that Hulu would have an interest in acquiring the rights to the new series as well.

Another company that pitched in its interest is Hulu, which holds streaming rights for episodes since the show’s relaunch back in 2002.

Clarkson and May spurred a new round of speculation about a deal coming together soon with social-media posts on Friday that were read by fans as hints about the new show.