Featured Image Credit: BBC/Visionhaus/Getty Images
Topics: Top Gear, Freddie Flintoff
Claire Reid
The BBC has responded to reports that Top Gear is to be axed after almost 50 years.
The popular motoring show kicked off all the way back in 1977 and has earned itself an army of loyal fans over the years.
Top Gear’s most recent series was cut short after host Andrew ‘Freddie’ Flintoff crashed an open-topped three-wheel Morgan Super 3 at 130mph, which resulted in the former cricketer being airlifted to hospital in December last year.
He was left with serious injuries to his face and several broken ribs.
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In the wake of the crash, the BBC halted filming and the future of the show has been in question ever since.
In April this year, the BBC explained that while internal investigations into the accident were underway, the BBC suspended production, stating it would be 'inappropriate to resume making series 34 of Top Gear at this time'.
The statement from the national broadcaster added: “We understand this will be disappointing for fans, but it is the right thing to do, and we’ll make a judgement about how best to continue later this year. This has also impacted the production team, who we continue to support."
Yesterday it was reported that a decision had been made and the BBC had ‘axed’ the show, with a TV insider telling the Sun: "Top Gear has been an institution on British telly but the feeling is there is no way it can continue after Freddie’s crash.
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“The BBC are aware they very nearly lost a presenter’s life while filming a segment, and there’s a feeling it would be in bad taste to continue making such dangerous material.
“It’s a tough decision but they know deep down it’s the right one as hardcore fans of the show won’t want to see a lightweight version.”
However, the BBC has since shut down the claims and has said no decision has been made.
In a statement, a spokesperson told the Metro: “A decision on the timing of future Top Gear shows will be made in due course with BBC Content.”
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LADbible has approached the BBC for comment.
Earlier this week, Flintoff spoke publicly for the first time since the crash while presenting England player Tom Hartley with his international cap.
In the clip, shared on X, Flintoff paid tribute to the ‘family’ environment around the team, as well as saying that good teammates will always ‘be there for you in the hardest times of your life’.
Speaking during the presentation, Freddie said: "It gives me so much pleasure to share what's going to be a day Tom that you're going to remember for the rest of your life.
"When you get this cap, this changes your life. It's one of those things, it's before and after it.
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“This enables you to walk tall and move faster. Play with passion, play with pride, play with belief. And also part of a family of people.
"They'll share the good times with you, share the successes. But as I found over the past few months, they'll be there for you in the hardest times of your life.
"They will stand next to you. So, like the lion on the cap Tom, be brave, be, fearless, be proud and enjoy every minute."