Netflix and ITV leading the race for the Top Gear trio

ITV and Netflix are thought to be leading the race to sign Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May for a new project. Hulu is also apparently in the running to hire the former Top Gear trio to front a new unscripted motoring series, according to Variety.
Clarkson, Hammond and May are believed to have been negotiating deals with various networks since departing the BBC series, which is to be relaunched with Chris Evans as lead host. Their long-time producer Andy Wilman is also expected to reunite with the team for the new series.
Netflix has reportedly made a ‘sizeable’ offer for the trio for multiple seasons, in what is thought to be an attempt to expand its brand in the UK and Europe.
Hulu Plus has streaming rights to Top Gear episodes dating back to 2003, and the company is also interested in commissioning a new series. However, Hulu is said to be a less appealing offer than ITV or Netflix due to its international distribution potential. Hammond and May declined to sign a new Top Gear deal after Clarkson’s contract was not renewed over a high-profile bust-up with a producer.
Gordon Brittas could be returning to our screens, after it was revealed that The Brittas Empire is set for a comeback.
The 90s’ sitcom starred Chris Barrie as the inept manager of Whitbury New Town Leisure Centre. Barrie appeared to announce the news at a recent Comic-Con fan convention when he said: “There’s no secret to the fact that there’s a script that’s been commissioned by the BBC for a new Brittas Empire. So there’s a chance that I may well be back.” According to The Mirror, a BBC spokeswoman has confirmed that a project – possibly a Christmas special – is being developed.
The Brittas Empire ran for 53 episodes between 1991 and 1997. If you would like me to answer any questions you may have on satellite TV or to expand on anything I have written about please call me on 678 332 815 or email richard@europa-digital.com.
I look forward to your comments and questions. Don’t forget to listen to my radio show every weekday from 10am on Spectrum 96.1 & 106.8FM, now covering almost 3000sq kms of Costa Almeria and Calida or listen online at costaalmeria.spectrumfm.net for the latest news and views from the world of satellite television.