It has been reported that the BBC is planning to axe Top Gear after 46 years following Freddie Flintoff’s horror crash.
Beeb executives have reportedly come to the “tough” conclusion that the show cannot continue after the near-fatal smash that left Flintoff with extreme facial injuries and broken ribs.
A telly insider told The Sun:
“Top Gear has been an institution on British telly but the feeling is there is no way it can continue after Freddie’s crash. The BBC are aware they very nearly lost a presenter’s life while filming a segment. There’s a feeling it would be in bad taste to continue making such dangerous material. It’s a tough decision but they know deep down it’s the right one as hardcore fans of the show won’t want to see a lightweight version.”
Last December, the presenter was driving a three-wheeled Morgan Super 3 at 130mph when it flipped over at the Dunsfold Park Aerodrome in Surrey. He had to wait 45 minutes before being airlifted to hospital following the crash. As a result of the incident, filming of the show’s 34th series was immediately suspended.
In March, the BBC issued a statement regarding the accident and apologised to Freddie. The statement read:
“BBC Studios have sincerely apologised to Freddie and will continue to support him with his recovery. Under the circumstances, we feel it would be inappropriate to resume making series 34 of Top Gear at this time.
“We understand this will be disappointing for fans, but it is the right thing to do, and we’ll make a judgment about how best to continue later this year. This has also impacted the production team, who we continue to support.
“There will be a health and safety review of the show, in line with our procedures.”
The corporation is yet to comment on reports of the show’s axing.
