In a significant shake-up for one of Prime Video's flagship automotive series, The Grand Tour has officially unveiled its new presenting trio. The announcement confirms that YouTubers Thomas Holland and James Engelsman, alongside social media personality Francis Bourgeois, will take the wheel from the departing legends Jeremy Clarkson, James May, and Richard Hammond.
A New Era for The Grand Tour
This transition marks the end of an era for the popular motoring show, which originally launched on Amazon's streaming platform in 2016. The final episode featuring the original trio of Clarkson, May, and Hammond aired in September 2024, concluding their long-running partnership that began on the BBC's Top Gear. Richard Hammond had previously confirmed that the series would continue with fresh faces, emphasising that the new hosts must possess a genuine passion for automotive subjects to succeed in the role.
Meet the New Presenters
The incoming hosts bring a distinctly modern and digital-first approach to the series. Thomas Holland and James Engelsman are best known for their highly successful YouTube channel, Throttle House, which has amassed a substantial following through its engaging car reviews, detailed track tests, and automotive journalism. Their expertise and on-screen chemistry have made them standout figures in the online motoring community.
Francis Bourgeois, whose real name is Luke Nicolson, rose to fame through a series of viral trainspotting videos on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, capturing the public's imagination with his enthusiastic and authentic presentations. Beyond his social media success, Bourgeois has expanded his career into modelling and authorship, having published a book that further cements his status as a multifaceted entertainer.
Advice from the Veterans
In September 2024, Richard Hammond offered some parting wisdom for the new hosts, stressing that a deep-seated enthusiasm for cars and motoring culture is essential. His comments highlighted the importance of authenticity and knowledge, qualities that the original presenters exemplified throughout their tenure. The selection of Holland, Engelsman, and Bourgeois suggests that Prime Video is aiming to blend traditional automotive expertise with contemporary digital appeal, potentially attracting a younger audience while retaining the show's core fanbase.
The move reflects broader trends in entertainment, where digital creators are increasingly transitioning to mainstream television and streaming platforms. By tapping into the established followings of these online personalities, The Grand Tour may rejuvenate its format and explore new creative directions under fresh leadership. Fans of the series will be keen to see how the new hosts adapt to the show's signature style of grand adventures, car comparisons, and humorous banter, all while putting their own unique stamp on the programme.
