Top Gear Should've Stopped After Hammond's Crash, Says Former Producer

Former Top Gear producer Andy Wilman has characterized Richard Hammond's crash as a "real wake-up call" regarding the show's safety protocols. Speaking at the Royal Television Society (RTS) London Conference, Wilman, who led the BBC motoring show from 2002 to 2015, voiced his concerns about the increasing frequency of crashes and hinted that it might be "time to end" the program.

The creator behind Clarkson's Farm explained that while his team conducted risk assessments, they grew frustrated with the prevailing "culture of accident prevention" instead of focusing on "mitigation." He elaborated: "We have actually done all the risk assessments; what we get annoyed at is if there's a culture of accident prevention, and we're like, no, it's mitigation.

You know, when one of them eventually crashes, have we got everything in place? If not, should we not do something in case they crash?

That was a point of difference for us." Wilman also reflected on the heavy toll of repeated accidents, saying, "We've done it too much now, so it's one of those reasons that it's time to end."

Recalling the frightening aftermath of Hammond's severe crash, he described the moment as a sobering reality check: "Richard's first big crash was a real wake-up call because I remember driving up and thinking, f*** me, it's a TV show. I rang the hospital, and they said he's in intensive care, and we don't know if he's going to make it."

It might be "time to end" the program

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Wilman continued: "You're like, we've done everything, so you're not thinking about who's to blame or anything like that because everything was in place. But you just think he's got a wife and two children; what are we doing?

That fear was for him and the helplessness, obviously, because they won't tell you anymore; on their part, they don't give you any detail. And you start thinking in traffic, and you're panicking, and you're thinking, what's the point of what we do?

What is the point?" Wilman also referred to a discussion he had with Jeremy Clarkson following the incident: "We did have a good chat afterwards, me and Jeremy, like, God, should we be bothered with this?"

Safety Protocols and Risk Management

The alarming rate of accidents in high-octane shows like Top Gear raises critical questions about safety protocols. Dr. David Perlmutter, a neurologist, states, "Comprehensive risk assessments are essential for productions involving high-speed vehicles to ensure the safety of all participants." Experts advocate for implementing stringent safety measures and regular training for crew and talent alike. This includes rigorous testing of vehicles and on-site medical readiness, which can significantly mitigate risks associated with adrenaline-fueled stunts. Dr. Dean Ornish emphasizes, "Incorporating these practices not only protects individuals but also enhances the production's credibility and viewer trust."

In 2006, while filming Top Gear, Hammond was involved in a serious crash

The crash left him in a two-week coma and required a five-week hospital stay. Wilman, in another conversation, shared how the team had deliberately designed their office to be unwelcoming, aiming to deter any unwanted attention from executives.

He explained, "I think we used to make the place a bit horrible because I wanted to be left alone from execs." This approach gave them the freedom to work autonomously. "Luckily, it was good stuff," said Wilman.

DRIVETRIBE

Wilman also reflected on his long-standing partnership with Jeremy Clarkson, which started during their school days. Wilman described their collaboration as having a unique "synergy," leading to an "organic development" in their shared projects over the years.

Wilman shared, "I went to school with him, though none of this was planned back then." Reflecting on their years of collaboration, he noted, "We do have a synergy, and I think some of that traces back to our school days, no doubt about it.

One of the key elements in all our work has been the organic development of each show."

The producer spoke out after the serious accident involving TV host and former England cricketer Andrew "Freddie" Flintoff, 46, who was injured during Top Gear filming at Dunsfold Aerodrome in December 2022. As a result of the crash, the BBC decided to pause the show for the "foreseeable future."

Following the incident, an independent health and safety review of Top Gear was launched. The review concluded that "while BBC Studios had adhered to the necessary BBC policies and industry best practices in producing the show, there were key lessons to be learned that must be strictly applied to any future Top Gear UK productions."

Dr. David Anderson, a psychology expert specializing in media influences, notes that shows like Top Gear often glamorize dangerous behavior, inadvertently normalizing risk-taking. He emphasizes that producers must recognize their influence on public perception and behavior.

Dr. Anderson suggests that implementing educational segments within the show about the importance of safety could serve as a counterbalance to the thrill-seeking narrative. By sharing behind-the-scenes safety measures and featuring discussions on the consequences of reckless driving, producers can foster a culture of responsibility.

This approach not only enhances viewer engagement but also aligns with ethical broadcasting standards.

Psychological Insights & Implications

In light of Richard Hammond's crash, it's clear that the entertainment industry must prioritize safety alongside thrilling content. The insights from professionals like Dr. David Anderson highlight the need for a shift in how producers approach risk in automotive shows.

Implementing comprehensive safety measures, alongside educating audiences on responsible behaviors, can create a more balanced viewing experience. As Andy Wilman suggested, now might be the time to reconsider the direction of shows like Top Gear to ensure they don't compromise the well-being of both cast and crew.