The BBC has confirmed it has “rested” Top Gear UK, and has given no indication when the show will return to TV screens.
“Given the exceptional circumstances, the BBC has decided to rest the UK show for the foreseeable future. The BBC remains committed to Freddie, Chris and Paddy who have been at the heart of the show’s renaissance since 2019, and we’re excited about new projects being developed with each of them,” said the BBC in a statement.
“We will have more to say in the near future on this. We know resting the show will be disappointing news for fans, but it is the right thing to do.
“All other Top Gear activity remains unaffected by this hiatus including international formats, digital, magazines and licensing.”
The news comes as BBC reportedly reached a settlement with co-host Andrew “Freddie” Flintoff for £9 million (A$17 million), with The Sun reporting both sides were “satisfied” with the result.
Mr Flintoff was driving a Morgan Super 3 on December 13, 2022, when the car flipped and slid along the Top Gear track in Dunsfold, UK.
He reportedly suffered broken ribs and facial injuries in the crash, despite wearing a helmet. A member of the film crew was in the passenger seat, and was also injured in the accident.
The host, who presents the latest take on Top Gear alongside Paddy McGuinness and Chris Harris, was airlifted to hospital following the crash.
The BBC released a statement in March saying it will not continue filming its current season of the show.
“Under the circumstances, we feel it would be inappropriate to resume making series 34,” said the broadcaster.
It’s unclear in what capacity the Top Gear hosts will feature in the future given the network’s optimistic statement.
Viewers who want to satisfy their craving for Top Gear will soon be able to watch the Australian version, which is returning after a 12-year hiatus.
It will star new hosts including Blair Joscelyne, Beau Ryan and Jonathan LaPaglia.
Top Gear Australia is set to begin filming in 2023, with an eight-episode season ordered. It’ll air on streamer Paramount+.
