50 Facts About Jeremy Clarkson

Early Life and Education

Jeremy Clarkson's journey began in Doncaster, England, where he was born on April 11, 1960. His early years were marked by a mix of discipline and rebellion.

1. Jeremy Clarkson was born on April 11, 1960, in Doncaster, England. His father, Edward Grenville Clarkson, was a senior executive for a food company, and his mother, Shirley Gabrielle Clarkson (née Hall), was a teacher.
2. Clarkson attended Hill House School in Sheffield and later Repton School in Derbyshire. He was expelled from Repton for "drinking, smoking, and generally making a nuisance" of himself, where he met Andy Wilman, the executive producer of Top Gear.

Early Career and Journalism

Before becoming a household name, Clarkson cut his teeth in journalism, working for local newspapers and honing his writing skills.

3. Before becoming a television presenter, Clarkson worked as a local journalist in northern England. He trained with the Rotherham Advertiser and also wrote for the Rochdale Observer, Wolverhampton Express and Star, and other local newspapers.
4. Clarkson's first job was as a traveling salesman for his parents' business, selling Paddington Bear toys. This experience likely influenced his later career in television, where he became known for his charismatic and engaging personality.
5. Clarkson passed his driving test in 1977 at the wheel of his grandfather’s Bentley R Type. He was so confident he’d pass that he took along scissors to remove the L-plates afterward.

Rise to Fame with Top Gear

Clarkson's big break came with Top Gear, a show that would make him a global icon and a beloved figure in the automotive world.

6. Clarkson’s television career began to take shape when he was at school. He was part of a group that created a show called The Sunday Service, which was broadcast on the school's internal television system. This early experience laid the groundwork for his future success in television.
7. Clarkson rose to public prominence as a presenter of the original format of Top Gear in 1988. The show, which he co-presented with Richard Hammond and James May, became one of the most popular shows on the BBC, known for its entertaining and often provocative content.
8. Throughout his career, Clarkson has been involved in several controversies. In 2015, he was fired from Top Gear after an altercation with a producer. However, this setback did not dampen his spirit, as he soon found success with The Grand Tour and other ventures.

The Grand Tour and Beyond

After leaving Top Gear, Clarkson continued to entertain audiences with The Grand Tour and other projects, showcasing his versatility and enduring appeal.

9. After leaving the BBC, Clarkson, Hammond, and May formed the production company W. Chump & Sons to produce The Grand Tour for Amazon Prime Video. The show continues to entertain viewers worldwide with its thrilling adventures and humorous banter.
10. Clarkson is also an accomplished writer and has authored numerous books, including best-selling autobiographies and books about cars. His engaging writing style and unique perspectives have garnered him a large and dedicated fan base.
11. Clarkson has written weekly columns for The Sunday Times and The Sun. His opinionated but humorous tongue-in-cheek writing has often provoked a public reaction, making him a prominent figure in British journalism.
12. Since 2018, Clarkson has hosted the ITV game show Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?. This role has further cemented his status as a versatile and engaging television presenter.

Clarkson's Farm and Personal Life

In recent years, Clarkson has explored new ventures, including farming, which has revealed a different side of his personality.

13. In recent years, Clarkson has showcased his love for the countryside and farming through his television series Clarkson's Farm. The show documents his journey as an amateur farmer, offering a unique glimpse into a different facet of his life.
14. Clarkson's passion for farming extends beyond the television show. He has converted unused agricultural buildings on his farm, Diddly Squat, into commercial usage, which led to the introduction of the 'Clarkson's Clause' amendment in May 2024.
15. Clarkson has been married to Lisa Hogan since 2017. He has three children: Emily, Finlo, and Katya. Despite his tough exterior, Clarkson has shown a softer side, particularly when it comes to his family and pets.

Love for Cars

Jeremy Clarkson's love for cars is well-documented, and his extensive knowledge and passion have made him a respected figure in the automotive world.

16. One of the most well-known facts about Jeremy Clarkson is his undying love for cars. From a young age, he found himself drawn to the world of automobiles, which later paved the way for his successful career as a presenter on Top Gear.
17. Clarkson has expressed fondness for various cars, including the Czech-made Škoda Yeti, which he called "possibly the best car in the world." He has also praised the Brera, Alfa's latest sports car, calling it "Cameron Diaz on wheels".
18. Some of the cars Clarkson has owned include the Volvo XC90, Range Rover TDV8 Vogue SE, Lotus Elise 111S, Mercedes-Benz 600 Grosser, Mercedes-Benz SLK55 AMG, Mercedes CLK63 AMG Black, Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster, BMW M3 CSL, Honda CR-X, Ferrari F355, Ford GT, and Aston Martin.
19. In 2008, Jeremy Clarkson achieved an astounding feat by setting the fastest lap time in a production sports car on the famous Top Gear track. This impressive achievement earned him a place in the prestigious Guinness World Records.

Interests and Hobbies

Beyond cars and television, Clarkson has a range of interests and hobbies that showcase his multifaceted personality.

20. Clarkson is interested in the military and has been a patron of Help for Heroes, a charity that provides support and facilities to wounded British servicemen. He has also taken part in a sponsored bike ride to raise funds for the cause.
21. Despite what many believe, Clarkson doesn’t hate France. In fact, he loves the place, writing about its blend of uninterested waiters, dreary Left Bank poetry, lamb-burning farmers, and Calais traffic cops. However, he also appreciates its fast trains, nuclear power stations, and the fading splendor of Biarritz.
22. Clarkson can play the drums, although he admits to practicing infrequently. He has become to the world of sticksmanship what Germany is to the world of cricket.
23. When Clarkson met his wife Francie in 1990, he was described as a "pussy cat." He had just started in television and was mostly watching Danger Mouse and playing Scrabble with his mates. He was very sweet, doing the shopping, cooking, and even ironing for her.
24. Clarkson believes grown men should never cry but admits he had to go for “a little walk” when family pet Kristin Scott Donkey died. He also got quite sniffly watching the 1983 Michael Caine flick Educating Rita.

Memorable Moments and Achievements

Clarkson's career has been filled with memorable moments and significant achievements that have left a lasting impact on his fans and the entertainment industry.

25. The idea for Top Gear germinated when Clarkson was at school. He was expelled from Repton for his misbehavior but met Andy Wilman, who would later become the executive producer of Top Gear. Clarkson was also a classmate of Adrian Newey, chief technical officer of the Red Bull F1 team.
26. Clarkson passed his driving test in 1977 at the wheel of his grandfather’s Bentley R Type. He was so confident he’d pass that he took along scissors to remove the L-plates afterward.
27. Clarkson has written more than 1,000 articles for The Sunday Times in a relationship that has lasted more than 20 years. His first review is available online, showcasing his extensive experience as a columnist.
28. Amongst other cars, Clarkson has owned three Volvo XC90 4x4s since 2003. He praises the Volvo as "a means of carrying people and stuff at the same time, with no equal".
29. In 2008, 49,446 people signed an online petition under the title, “Make Jeremy Clarkson Prime Minister.” The office of Number 10 Downing Street created a light-hearted video in response, which was criticized by the opposition Conservative party as a waste of taxpayers’ money. Clarkson later said he would be a “rubbish” prime minister because he has problems not contradicting himself in his columns.
30. Clarkson was hit in the face with a pie by a protester whilst collecting his honorary degree for services to engineering from Oxford Brookes University. This incident has become a memorable moment in his career.
31. Clarkson has an eerily encyclopedic knowledge of British road names and numbers. This extensive knowledge is often showcased during his car reviews and adventures on Top Gear and The Grand Tour.

Favorite Cars and Driving Experiences

Clarkson's favorite cars and driving experiences highlight his deep connection to the automotive world and his passion for high-performance vehicles.

32. During Top Gear's Patagonia Special, Clarkson said that the Porsche 928 was a car that was close to his heart. He used it to unexpectedly drive from London to Sheffield to visit his dying father in hospital. The Porsche 928 was fast enough that a chicken he had cooked was still warm by the time he arrived in Sheffield.
33. Clarkson has expressed fondness for late-model V8 Holdens, available in the UK rebadged as Vauxhalls. He described the Monaro as "back-breakingly marvellous" and suffered two slipped discs attributed to driving it.
34. Clarkson considers the Lexus LFA as the best car he has ever driven. This high-performance sports car is known for its exceptional speed and handling, making it a favorite among car enthusiasts.
35. Clarkson has spoken highly of the Alfa Romeo brand, calling it "Cameron Diaz on wheels." He has also praised the Brera, Alfa's latest sports car, for its sleek design and performance.
36. Clarkson has been a vocal supporter of the Škoda Yeti, calling it "possibly the best car in the world." He used 20 minutes of a Top Gear episode putting the Yeti through a number of challenges to support his point.

Travel and Adventures

Clarkson's adventurous spirit has taken him to various corners of the globe, often capturing his experiences on camera for his audience to enjoy.

37. As an adventurous spirit, Jeremy Clarkson has traveled to numerous destinations around the world, often capturing his experiences on camera. From challenging road trips to breathtaking landscapes, his travel escapades continue to inspire and entertain his audience.

Social Media and Philanthropy

Clarkson's presence on social media and his philanthropic efforts showcase his commitment to engaging with his fans and giving back to the community.

38. With millions of followers across various social media platforms, Jeremy Clarkson remains connected with his dedicated fan base. His engaging and often humorous posts provide insights into his personal and professional life, making him a social media influencer in his own right.
39. Clarkson has been involved in several philanthropic efforts, including supporting Help for Heroes and participating in sponsored bike rides to raise funds for wounded British servicemen.

Car Collection and Industry Influence

Clarkson's extensive car collection and influence within the automotive industry highlight his dedication to car culture and his impact on the world of automobiles.

40. Amongst other cars, Clarkson has owned three Volvo XC90 4x4s since 2003. He praises the Volvo as "a means of carrying people and stuff at the same time, with no equal".
41. Some of the cars Jeremy Clarkson has owned include the Volvo XC90, Range Rover TDV8 Vogue SE, Lotus Elise 111S, Mercedes-Benz 600 Grosser, Mercedes-Benz SLK55 AMG, Mercedes CLK63 AMG Black, Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster, BMW M3 CSL, Honda CR-X, Ferrari F355, Ford GT, and Aston Martin.
42. Clarkson has an extensive knowledge of cars, which he often showcases during his reviews and adventures on Top Gear and The Grand Tour. He can recall intricate details about various models, making him a respected figure in the automotive industry.
43. Jeremy Clarkson is a true car enthusiast who has spent his career exploring the world of automobiles. From classic cars to modern sports cars, he has driven them all and shared his experiences with millions of viewers.
44. Clarkson's car reviews are known for their humor and honesty. He has reviewed countless cars over the years, often providing insightful commentary that resonates with car enthusiasts worldwide.
45. Jeremy Clarkson has played a significant role in popularizing car culture through his shows and writings. His passion for cars has inspired many to explore the world of automobiles, making him a beloved figure in automotive culture.
46. Clarkson's influence extends beyond television. He has been involved in various projects related to the car industry, including producing car-related content and participating in automotive events.
47. Clarkson is known for his extensive car collection, which includes a variety of models from different manufacturers. His collection showcases his diverse tastes in cars and his dedication to the automotive world.
48. Jeremy Clarkson has built a strong connection with the car enthusiast community through his shows and writings. He often engages with fans on social media, sharing his love for cars and encouraging others to do the same.
49. Clarkson has received recognition within the car industry for his contributions to automotive culture. He has been awarded several accolades, including the National Television Award for Special Recognition and the RTS Programme Award for Best Presenter.
50. Jeremy Clarkson’s legacy extends beyond his television shows and writings. He has become an iconic figure in British entertainment, known for his unique style and engaging personality. His influence on car culture and his dedication to the automotive industry have left a lasting impact on the world of cars and beyond.

Clarkson's Impact and Legacy

Jeremy Clarkson's career has been nothing short of remarkable. From his early days as a local journalist to becoming a global television icon, Clarkson has left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment and automotive culture. His unfiltered opinions, love for cars, and knack for storytelling have made him a beloved figure. Shows like Top Gear and The Grand Tour have entertained millions, while his writing continues to engage readers. Despite controversies, Clarkson's influence remains strong. His ventures into farming with Clarkson's Farm and hosting Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? showcase his versatility. Whether you're a car enthusiast or just love a good laugh, Jeremy Clarkson's legacy is one of passion, humor, and undeniable impact.