Jeremy Clarkson Fired

The BBC has announced that presenter Jeremy Clarkson will be let go from Top Gear. 

An investigation into a so called “fracas” has led to a decision to not renew Clarkson’s contract this year after he was found to have “crossed a line.” The incident in question occurred when Clarkson couldn’t get a hot meal after a day of filming. The BBC said he then verbally assaulted producer Oisin Tymon, eventually leading to a physical assault which caused swelling and a bleeding lip.

“I cannot condone what has happened on this occasion,” said Tony Hall, the BBC Director-General in an official statement. “A member of staff – who is a completely innocent party – took himself to Accident and Emergency after a physical altercation accompanied by sustained and prolonged verbal abuse of an extreme nature. For me a line has been crossed. There cannot be one rule for one and one rule for another dictated by either rank, or public relations and commercial considerations.”

The internal investigation into the matter, led by the director of BBC Scotland Ken MacQuarrie, began last week. Tymon did not lodge a formal complaint against Clarkson, who reported himself to BBC bosses.

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Clarkson was immediately suspended following the incident, which led to massive outcry of support from fans who want Clarkson to keep his position on the popular television show. An online petition calling for Clarkson to be reinstated has garnered over one million signatures in a show of support.

“Obviously none of us wanted to find ourselves in this position,” said Hall. “This decision should in no way detract from the extraordinary contribution that Jeremy Clarkson has made to the BBC. I have always personally been a great fan of his work and Top Gear. Jeremy is a huge talent. He may be leaving the BBC but I am sure he will continue to entertain, challenge and amuse audiences for many years to come.”

Initial speculation said that popular Radio 2 DJ Chris Evans might be in line to replace Clarkson, but he has put the rumors to rest on his radio show, clearly stating that it will “never happen.” Whether the show’s other two hosts, Richard Hammond and James May, will continue on with the show is unclear. Both have contract renewals coming up this year.

“The BBC must now look to renew Top Gear for 2016. This will be a big challenge and there is no point in pretending otherwise,” finished the statement.