The Grand Tour Fans React to New Presenting Line-Up
In a move that has sparked mixed reactions from fans, GB News has learned that YouTube duo Thomas Holland and James Engelsman from Throttle House, along with viral trainspotting personality Francis Bourgeois, will be taking over as the new presenters of The Grand Tour on Prime Video.
According to a report in GB News, the new trio will replace the original presenters Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May, who had been at the helm of the motoring series since its inception. Clarkson, Hammond, and May had previously fronted the BBC’s Top Gear before moving to The Grand Tour.
The new presenters bring a fresh dynamic to the show, with Holland and Engelsman’s YouTube channel boasting over 3.2 million subscribers. Bourgeois, who has gained fame for his railway enthusiasm, will bring his distinctive humour to the motoring programme as it transitions to its new format.
A source told GB News: "Thomas and James are as knowledgeable about motors as Jeremy, Richard and James — the only difference is they’re younger, cooler and a lot more social media savvy. Francis became famous for his love of trainspotting and will be bringing his humour to the show."
The announcement has not been universally well-received, with some fans taking to social media to express their disappointment. One fan wrote: "I mean, what’s the point the show was created for Jeremy, James and Richard." Another added: "This will have the same fate as Top Gear. When will Studios realise Clarkson, Hammond and May are why we watched!!"
Fans have threatened to boycott the show, with one expressing: "I’m not really interested in cars, but they were such an entertaining trio it made the shows worth watching and rewatching." Another questioned the decision, saying: "Meh, why can’t anything be left alone. Thought after the last series that would be it. It’s like Top Gear all over again."
Bourgeois, who became popular for his trainspotting videos on TikTok, has been welcomed by some fans, but others have expressed confusion and concern about the new line-up. One fan asked: "This has to be a joke, right? I mean, I find Francis endearing but he’s not a presenter. This is going to be an awkward disaster."
The transition marks a significant shift for the programme as it adapts to a younger demographic whilst maintaining its focus on automotive content. As GB News reported, the new presenters’ motor expertise and enhanced social media capabilities will likely appeal to a new generation of viewers.
In response to the announcement, fans have taken to social media to share their thoughts on the new line-up. While some are excited to see the show continue, others are mourning the loss of the original presenters. As one fan put it: "This isn’t real, surely? That sounds like a disaster."
The Grand Tour’s new presenting line-up is set to bring a fresh perspective to the motoring series, but it remains to be seen how fans will respond to the changes. One thing is certain, however: the show’s new era will be closely watched by fans and critics alike.
For more information on the new line-up and fan reaction, visit GB News.
