Paul Rees, the British racing driver who was the last person to portray The Stig on Top Gear, has publicly identified himself as the man behind the helmet to sue the BBC for up to £150,000. He alleges the broadcaster failed to properly treat injuries he sustained during the same accident that nearly killed presenter Andrew 'Freddie' Flintoff.
Who is The Stig?
The Stig is a fictional character from the BBC motoring show Top Gear, created by Jeremy Clarkson and producer Andy Wilman. Known as the show's 'tame racing driver,' the mute character is famous for his anonymity, wearing a full-face helmet and white overalls. He set lap times, assisted with the 'Star in a Reasonably Priced Car' segment, and took part in racing challenges.
Why is The Stig suing the BBC?
Rees alleges that the medic on site immediately told him he was 'not equipped' for the crash and that, because of the rush to treat Flintoff, he did not receive medical treatment for his injuries until much later. He was sent to hospital on a spinal board, but later discovered he had broken his back. A BBC Studios spokesperson denied these claims, saying: 'We dispute this claim and are defending it. As it's now before the courts, it would be inappropriate to comment further.' In its legal response, the BBC denied it was negligent 'as alleged or at all' and is denying Rees' compensation appeals. Metro understands the BBC believes it provided comprehensive medical and welfare support. BBC Studios also claims his 'faulty instructions' led to the accident, as he was the designated professional that day.
Rees denies the BBC's claims, saying he expected support but instead felt blamed. 'I expected an arm to be put around me, and it wasn't whatsoever,' he said. 'I said to her, “How are you pinning this on me?” She's like, “Well, you were the pro driver sat next to him. We're not pinning it on you as such, but you probably need to get a good lawyer.” It felt like the accident just happened over again, like I was being thrown under the bus.'
Has there been more than one Stig?
Several drivers have played The Stig over the years. Perry McCarthy was the first, known as the Black Stig, from 2002 to 2003. Ben Collins played the second Stig (First White Stig) from 2003 to 2010, leaving after a legal dispute over his autobiography. Michael Schumacher was revealed as The Stig in a one-off promotional stunt during series 13. After Collins left, the Second White Stig was introduced, played by Phil Keen until 2022, as revealed by Andy Wilman. Other names linked to the character include Jay Kay, Damon Hill, Julian Bailey, Russ Swift, and Darren Turner.
