James May Reveals What He Really Thinks About Clarkson’s Farm – and Jeremy Clarkson.
James May Takes Swipe at Jeremy Clarkson While Addressing Possible Clarkson’s Farm Cameo
James May has shared his candid thoughts on the possibility of appearing in his former co-star Jeremy Clarkson’s hit farming series Clarkson’s Farm — and couldn’t resist delivering a cheeky dig at his longtime friend along the way.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with the Oxford Mail, the presenter joked that neither he nor Clarkson knows much about farming, despite the show’s huge success on Prime Video.
From Cars to Crops
May, Clarkson, and Richard Hammond became one of television’s most iconic trios through their decades of work together on Top Gear and later The Grand Tour. Their chemistry, humor, and high-octane adventures turned them into household names and global stars.
While the trio has largely pursued separate projects in recent years, Clarkson’s foray into farming has arguably been the most unexpected — and one of the most successful.
Clarkson’s Farm follows the outspoken presenter as he attempts to manage Diddly Squat Farm, a 1,000-acre property in the Cotswolds village of Chadlington, Oxfordshire. The show blends comedy with genuine insight into the challenges of British farming and has been praised for its mix of chaos, charm, and authenticity.
Since premiering in 2021, the series has earned four seasons, with a fifth currently in production and expected to air in 2026.
Hammond’s Cameo — and a Question for May
Fans of The Grand Tour were thrilled earlier this year when Richard Hammond made a surprise appearance in Clarkson’s Farm. His cameo revolved around a running gag involving the massive tractor that now hangs from the ceiling of Clarkson’s pub, The Farmer’s Dog, in the Cotswolds.
So naturally, when May sat down with the Oxford Mail, the big question was whether he’d consider making a similar appearance.
“Well, I have been there [Diddly Squat Farm] because we’ve had various meetings in the old days there,” May said. “But I’ve never done any farming, no.”
He went on to reveal that he technically has appeared on the show before — albeit virtually.
“I have had a little cameo in the show [Clarkson’s Farm] when I was on Zoom, advising him [Jeremy Clarkson] about pubs,” he explained. “But no, I don’t particularly want to do farming.”
Then, in typical James May fashion, came the punchline:
“I don’t know anything about that. I mean, I’m not sure he does either, though, you know.”
Friendly Banter and Familiar Jabs
May’s comment fits perfectly into the long-standing banter between the three presenters, who have built their public personas on witty jibes and self-deprecating humor.
Clarkson, known for his bombastic personality, has often been on the receiving end of May’s dry one-liners — while Hammond frequently plays the peacekeeper.
The lighthearted dig about Clarkson’s farming abilities continues that tradition. Despite the jokes, Clarkson’s Farm has earned genuine respect from both fans and critics, with many praising Clarkson’s willingness to expose the realities of modern agriculture.
May’s quip, then, feels less like criticism and more like the familiar teasing that defined their time on Top Gear and The Grand Tour.
May’s Current Adventures
While Clarkson continues to plow through farm life, May is busy with his own projects — both on-screen and on stage. He recently sat down with the Oxford Mail to promote his upcoming live show, James May: Explorers — The Age of Discovery Tour, which will take place at the New Theatre in Oxford on Tuesday, October 21.
The tour explores the history of exploration and invention — two themes close to May’s heart. Known affectionately as “Captain Slow” for his more measured approach on Top Gear, May has carved out a successful solo career producing intelligent, curious, and humorous content.
His previous television work includes James May’s Toy Stories, Our Man in Japan, and Our Man in Italy, all praised for blending education with his trademark wit and humility.
Still Friends, Still Laughing
Despite their separate ventures, the trio’s camaraderie remains strong. The Grand Tour recently wrapped its final special, marking the end of an era for the beloved partnership — but not for their friendship.
And while May insists he won’t be donning muddy boots at Diddly Squat Farm anytime soon, fans can rest assured that the spirit of Top Gear lives on in their ongoing good-natured ribbing.
After all, Clarkson may have traded racetracks for tractors, but as May’s latest quip reminds us, the rivalry — and the laughter — is still alive and well.
