A former presenter on the BBC’s flagship automotive programme has disclosed how Jeremy Clarkson’s departure from the show altered his career path entirely.
Rory Reid became part of Top Gear in 2016, shortly after Clarkson’s dismissal in March 2025, which followed an altercation at a hospitality venue in North Yorkshire.
During an appearance on the Fuelling Around podcast alongside Dave Vitty and Vicki Butler-Henderson, who previously worked alongside him on Fifth Gear, Reid indicated that the controversial dismissal directly created his professional opening.
He explained that despite the unfortunate circumstances, the event represented a turning point that ultimately made his involvement with the programme possible.
The trajectory of his career shifted as a result of that particular incident, with Reid acknowledging uncertainty about whether his opportunity would have arisen under different circumstances.
He acknowledged that the position brought considerable pressure and public attention, with expectations running high throughout his tenure.
He expressed that he focused on appreciating each experience while recognising that the role presented significant challenges.
The programme itself faced intense media focus during that period, which added to the difficulty of the situation.
Reid disclosed that his path to landing the role was marked by setbacks.
He experienced considerable disappointment after initially being rejected for the position.
Following this setback, he sought constructive criticism and determined that presenting a different approach would be necessary.
At this stage, he contacted Rolls-Royce directly and requested access to a Ghost Series II model, subsequently creating an unconventional spoken word poetry piece reviewing the vehicle.
This approach had not been attempted by any candidate previously, and the unique presentation secured him the role immediately.
When considering his departure from Top Gear in 2019, Reid cited creative differences as a primary factor.
He had simultaneously been developing an online series for the programme, investing substantial effort into producing material that remained unreleased for an extended period.
The delayed release of his content, combined with receiving an offer from Autotrader, influenced his decision to pursue other opportunities.
Reid also noted that the corporation attempted to cast him in a limited capacity, specifically as a representative for electric vehicle coverage.
While he expressed appreciation for electric vehicles, he indicated this characterisation did not accurately reflect his broader identity or interests.
Following his departure from the broadcaster, Reid has maintained a professional relationship with Autotrader spanning nearly seven years.
Top Gear has remained off-air since 2023, when presenter Freddie Flintoff sustained serious injuries in a road traffic collision.
Recent announcements confirmed that production has resumed, with new presenting talent set to be revealed shortly.