The iconic automotive television series The Grand Tour has unveiled its new presenting trio, marking a significant transition for the popular Amazon Prime programme. Following the departure of original hosts Jeremy Clarkson, James May, and Richard Hammond in late 2024, the show's future had been uncertain. Now, a fresh line-up has been confirmed, featuring a blend of digital content creators and an unexpected enthusiast.
A New Era for the Automotive Show
Amazon Prime Video has officially announced that James Engelsman, Thomas Holland, and Francis Bourgeois will be the new faces of The Grand Tour. This decision concludes months of speculation about who would succeed the legendary presenting team that defined the show's character for years. The selection represents a deliberate shift towards personalities who have built their reputations through modern media platforms rather than traditional television.
Meet the New Presenting Trio
Francis Bourgeois brings a unique perspective to the automotive world, having gained considerable fame through his passionate and engaging trainspotting content on social media. His inclusion adds an unconventional element to the car-focused programme. Meanwhile, James Engelsman and Thomas Holland are well-known as the creative forces behind the successful YouTube automotive channel Throttle House, where they have produced car reviews and entertainment content for nearly a decade.
All three new hosts have expressed their enthusiasm for the opportunity. Francis Bourgeois humorously acknowledged the challenge ahead, stating: "The saying ‘big shoes to fill’ springs to mind. Well, in this case it’ll be like Mo Farah running in size 14 wellies — it’ll be a little awkward at first, perhaps blister inducing but will overall be an interesting watch."
Perspectives from the New Team
James Engelsman reflected on the new dynamic, noting: "I’ve worked with Thomas for almost a decade making car films. Who knew that all this time, the one ingredient that was missing was a Francis Bourgeois? Let the car adventures commence." Thomas Holland added a self-deprecating remark about initially doubting anyone would take on the role, saying: "When I first heard they were rebooting The Grand Tour and replacing Clarkson, Hammond and May, I said ‘only a moron would take that job’."
Clarkson's Previous Advice for Succession
Interestingly, Jeremy Clarkson had offered specific guidance to Amazon Prime's casting team back in 2024 regarding potential successors. He emphasised the need for presenters whose passion extends beyond mere interest, stating: "My advice to Amazon would be – and I’ve given this to them already – for heaven’s sake, do not get well known people who ‘like’ cars. Because when you do that show it has to be your life."
Clarkson further elaborated that presenters needed to be completely dedicated, suggesting: "I would get three complete unknowns. Start small, like we did. They’ve got to be absolute petrolheads. I’ve got to be able to show them a picture of a quarter of a door mirror from any car ever made, and they’ve got to know what it is." He recommended looking to motoring journalists, highlighting that he, May, and Hammond all came from that background.
What This Means for The Grand Tour
The appointment of this new team signals Amazon Prime's commitment to continuing The Grand Tour franchise with a refreshed approach. While the original presenters established a particular style of automotive entertainment blending humour, adventure, and expertise, the new hosts bring different sensibilities shaped by digital content creation and niche enthusiasm. This evolution reflects changing media consumption patterns and the growing influence of online personalities in mainstream entertainment.
Viewers can anticipate a distinctive interpretation of the automotive adventure format when the revamped show returns. The combination of established YouTube automotive reviewers with the unconventional perspective of a trainspotting personality promises to deliver fresh dynamics and potentially attract new audience segments while maintaining the programme's core focus on vehicles and global adventures.
