James May Reveals Grand Tour’s Last Episode in September

A Farewell to a Legendary Trio

For car enthusiasts around the world, the news of The Grand Tour’s final episode airing in September brings a mix of excitement and nostalgia. The iconic show, led by Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May, has been a staple of automotive entertainment, delivering thrilling adventures and humorous banter since its inception. Now, as we prepare to say goodbye, James May has provided a rough timeline for the show’s final curtain call.

The Announcement

James May hinted at the final episode’s release during a live recording of the BBC’s Today Podcast, as reported by the Evening Standard. While he playfully avoided giving an exact date, he did mention, “I’m not allowed to tell you what date it’s coming out, so I won’t say that it’s September.” This cryptic yet revealing statement has set fans eagerly anticipating September for the grand finale of The Grand Tour.

What We Know About the Final Episode

Details about the final episode remain shrouded in mystery. We know the episode is set in Zimbabwe, promising an exotic and adventurous backdrop for the trio’s last hurrah. Leaked behind-the-scenes shots suggest the inclusion of a Lancia Beta Montecarlo, Triumph Stag, and Ford Capri, hinting at a thrilling mix of classic cars and challenging terrain.

Amazon’s Plans for The Grand Tour

While the end of The Grand Tour as we know it draws near, Amazon appears to have plans to continue the series with a new team of presenters. However, specifics about who these new hosts will be or how the show might change are still under wraps. Fans are left to speculate about the future direction of this beloved series.

James May’s Reflections

In the same interview, James May took a moment to reflect on his illustrious career with Clarkson and Hammond, which began on Top Gear in 2003 and continued with The Grand Tour. May reminisced, “I thought, when I started doing it in 2003… that this was a bit of a laugh. Maybe it’ll last a few years. And here we are, grey and wizened and sagging. And we’ve only just stopped doing it.” His words highlight the unexpected longevity and impact of their collaboration.

May also shared his emotions about recording the final voiceover for the program, describing it as a sad moment. He acknowledged the unlikelihood of the trio working together on TV again, marking the end of an era that has entertained millions of fans globally.

Future Projects

Despite the end of The Grand Tour, James May remains active in the television world. Fans can look forward to more of his travel series, “Our Man In…,” on Prime Video. However, his cooking show, “Oh Cook!,” which gained a curious following, will not continue. This decision appears to be a surprising outcome of its own success, leaving fans curious about May’s future endeavors.

The Impact of The Grand Tour

The Grand Tour has been more than just a show about cars. It has been a journey of friendship, adventure, and unfiltered humor. Clarkson, Hammond, and May have taken viewers across continents, through some of the most challenging terrains, and into the heart of automotive culture. Their dynamic has been a key element of the show’s success, combining knowledge, wit, and a genuine love for cars.

A Look Back at Top Gear and The Grand Tour

The journey began with Top Gear, where the trio redefined automotive television. Their chemistry and passion for cars quickly resonated with audiences, making Top Gear one of the most popular shows on the BBC. When Clarkson, Hammond, and May moved to Amazon for The Grand Tour, they brought their loyal fanbase with them, continuing to deliver high-octane entertainment.

The Grand Tour took the trio’s adventures to new heights, with larger budgets and more freedom to create spectacular episodes. From epic road trips to outrageous challenges, the show has consistently pushed the boundaries of what a car show can be. Each episode has been a testament to their creativity and camaraderie.

The Final Episode: What to Expect

As we anticipate the final episode, it’s worth considering what makes The Grand Tour special. It’s not just about the cars; it’s about the stories, the mishaps, and the genuine moments of friendship between Clarkson, Hammond, and May. The Zimbabwe episode promises to encapsulate all these elements, providing a fitting send-off for the trio.

Fans can expect a mix of breathtaking scenery, classic car challenges, and the signature humor that has defined the show. The choice of cars—Lancia Beta Montecarlo, Triumph Stag, and Ford Capri—suggests a nostalgic journey through automotive history, with the trio likely to encounter both triumphs and tribulations along the way.

The Legacy of Clarkson, Hammond, and May

The end of The Grand Tour marks the close of a significant chapter in automotive entertainment. Clarkson, Hammond, and May have created a legacy that will be remembered for years to come. Their unique approach to car shows has inspired countless fans and influenced the genre in profound ways.

Their impact extends beyond television. They’ve hosted live events, written books, and become cultural icons in their own right. The trio’s ability to connect with audiences, regardless of their knowledge of cars, has been a remarkable achievement. They’ve made car culture accessible and entertaining to a global audience.

Moving Forward

As we bid farewell to The Grand Tour, we also look forward to what the future holds for Clarkson, Hammond, and May. While it’s unlikely they will work together on TV again, their individual projects will undoubtedly continue to captivate audiences. Clarkson’s farm show, Hammond’s engineering ventures, and May’s travel series will each offer unique insights and entertainment.

Amazon’s plans for The Grand Tour with a new team of presenters also open up exciting possibilities. While the new hosts have big shoes to fill, there’s potential for a fresh take on the format, bringing new perspectives and adventures to the screen.

Conclusion

The final episode of The Grand Tour represents the end of an era for Clarkson, Hammond, and May. Their journey from Top Gear to The Grand Tour has been filled with unforgettable moments, laughter, and genuine passion for cars. As we prepare for their last adventure together, we celebrate their legacy and the impact they’ve had on automotive entertainment.

While the trio may not work together on TV again, their influence will continue to be felt. Their shows have inspired a generation of car enthusiasts and will remain beloved by fans for years to come. As we eagerly await the final episode in September, we thank Clarkson, Hammond, and May for the incredible journey and look forward to what comes next in their storied careers. Photo Credit – SOPA IMAGES//GETTY IMAGES / The Grand Tour