Jeremy Clarkson Takes Historic Break from Television After Four Decades

Television Icon Steps Away from Cameras

Jeremy Clarkson has revealed he is taking his first break from television in 40 years, admitting he’s genuinely frightened about the extended time away from filming. The 65-year-old English television presenter is best known for hosting Top Gear and The Grand Tour alongside Richard Hammond and James May.

The Decision Behind the Break

Clarkson says the fifth season of Clarkson’s Farm might be the last, with the production crew taking a break after filming on his Cotswolds farm two or three days a week for five years. He told The Times: “I’d do a sixth if there was a reason for doing it, like a bloody good story… Whatever happens we’ll definitely take a short break as the crews are all worn out”.

The decision comes after the 65-year-old faced several health issues last year, including ending up in hospital with a heart problem whilst trying to open his pub and manage the harvest. Speaking at a programme launch, Clarkson admitted: “I’m genuinely frightened because until March, I won’t be filming a TV show for the first time in forty years”.

Current Projects and Future Plans

Clarkson currently hosts the ITV game show Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? and stars in the farming documentary show Clarkson’s Farm. In August 2024, he opened a pub called the Farmer’s Dog in Asthall, near Burford, in connection with his farming show.

In a recent interview, Clarkson announced he will not start any new businesses following the launch of his pub, stating: “I’m done with business now. I am not starting another business as long as I live”. The Farmer’s Dog, opened in 2024, now employs 146 people.

Significance for Television and Farming

Clarkson’s Farm has brought a whole new audience who’d never watched his previous programmes and is massively popular in China. The break marks a significant moment in British television history, as one of the country’s most recognisable presenters steps away from the cameras after an unprecedented four-decade run. For fans and the farming community alike, the hiatus represents both an end of an era and a well-deserved rest for the tireless broadcaster.