Jeremy Clarkson has been hailed by fans for “turning down” the BBC, after it emerged he originally pitched the idea for Clarkson’s Farm to the broadcaster nearly two decades ago — only to be met with resistance over office location logistics.
In a recently resurfaced viral TikTok clip, the former Top Gear host explained that he initially proposed the show to the BBC after purchasing his Diddly Squat Farm in 2008. However, the project was never commissioned due to the BBC’s insistence that production couldn’t be based in London.
“I pitched the farming idea to the BBC when I bought the farm in 2008,” Clarkson recalled. “And all they were bothered about was where the production office would be… They didn’t want it because the production office would be in London.”
Clarkson described the BBC’s demands as “idiotic” and said that despite approaching the network multiple times, they insisted the show be produced from Scotland—a stipulation he found unworkable.
Fans Celebrate “Right Decision”
Fans of the Amazon Prime hit Clarkson’s Farm have since taken to social media to celebrate the BBC’s rejection, arguing that the show’s gritty authenticity and charm would have been lost under the public broadcaster’s oversight.
“Their loss is Amazon’s gain,” one user commented.
“This show wasn’t meant for the BBC — they would have ruined it,” said another.
“Everything happens for a reason. Clarkson’s Farm is perfect the way it is.”
Clarkson’s Farm: A Global Hit
After finding a new home on Amazon Prime Video, Clarkson’s Farm became an instant success, with viewers captivated by Clarkson’s unexpected foray into agriculture. The show follows the 64-year-old’s often-comedic and chaotic attempts to run a working farm in the Cotswolds, alongside fan-favourite co-stars Kaleb Cooper, Lisa Hogan, and Gerald Cooper.
Despite being best known for hosting Top Gear and The Grand Tour alongside Richard Hammond and James May, Clarkson has found a surprising second act in the rural world, garnering praise even from critics who once dismissed his brash persona.
Season 4 Arrives Next Month
Prime Video has confirmed that Season 4 of Clarkson’s Farm will premiere next month, exactly a year after the third season’s release. The show continues to attract a dedicated global audience, further cementing its place as one of the platform’s most successful UK originals.
What Could Have Been?
While Clarkson’s comments shine a light on what could have been a very different version of Clarkson’s Farm, fans are united in their belief that the BBC’s decision to pass on the show may have been a blessing in disguise.
As one fan put it:
“No BBC meddling. No filters. Just Clarkson, Kaleb, and chaos. Wouldn’t have it any other way.”
