James May Reveals Why He Refused to Appear on Clarkson’s Farm.
James May Takes Swipe at Jeremy Clarkson as He Rules Out Appearing on Clarkson’s Farm
Former Top Gear star James May has made it clear he won’t be joining Jeremy Clarkson in the fields of Diddly Squat Farm — and, in true May fashion, couldn’t resist a cheeky jab at his longtime co-star while explaining why.
Speaking to the Oxford Mail, the presenter revealed that despite being invited, he has no interest in making an in-person appearance on Clarkson’s Farm — even though he’s technically already been on the show in a rather unexpected way.
“I Don’t Want to Do Farming”
James May confirmed that he’s visited Diddly Squat Farm several times in the past, but the idea of actually participating in the series doesn’t appeal to him.
“Well, I have been there [Diddly Squat Farm] because we’ve had various meetings in the old days there, but I’ve never done any farming, no,” he explained.
The 61-year-old added that he’d already had a small cameo on the show — 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 said. “But no, I don’t particularly want to do farming.”
Then, with his trademark dry humor, May delivered a gentle jab at his former Top Gear colleague.
“I don’t know anything about that,” he admitted. “I mean, I’m not sure he does either, though, you know.”
The quip has delighted fans of the trio’s long-standing banter — proof that even if they’re no longer filming together, the camaraderie and teasing remain as sharp as ever.
End of an Era for the Top Gear Trio
May’s remarks come amid growing speculation that the golden era of the Clarkson–May–Hammond trio has truly come to an end.
Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May first joined forces on the BBC’s Top Gear in 2002, turning the motoring series into a global phenomenon. After leaving the BBC in 2015, the trio reunited for The Grand Tour on Amazon Prime, continuing their blend of high-speed adventure and outrageous humor.
However, last year marked the end of that chapter. The team filmed their final Grand Tour special in Zimbabwe — bringing their journey full circle nearly a decade after their first Amazon adventure.
Business Ties Cut — and New Paths Ahead
Following the end of The Grand Tour, signs have emerged that the trio have officially gone their separate ways professionally.
According to documents filed in September, their joint production company — W. Chump & Sons — is being voluntarily wound up. The company, which had produced The Grand Tour and other projects since 2015 under the guidance of producer Andy Wilman, closed its books with an impressive £24 million in assets.
If split equally between the four men — Clarkson, May, Hammond, and Wilman — each would take home just over £6 million. The winding-up of the company has fueled speculation that the trio have no plans to reunite on-screen again.
While Clarkson’s Farm continues to thrive, May and Hammond have both been pursuing individual ventures. Hammond has launched several shows about car restoration, while May has focused on travel, science, and now — live events.
May’s So-Called Retirement That Isn’t
Despite once hinting at retirement, May confessed that his schedule is busier than ever. He’s currently touring with James May: Explorers — The Age of Discovery Tour, which explores the fascinating world of invention, exploration, and curiosity.
“I’ve failed at retirement,” he joked in an interview with The i. “I’ve been thinking about my retirement since I was a teenager. 2025 was going to be my trial retirement year, but I’ve been accepted to speak at a couple of history festivals and charity events.”
And that’s not all.
“I’ve got two TV series, and then I’m doing a live show in Australia, New Zealand, and around the UK,” he continued. “This is the busiest year I’ve had for about a decade. I haven’t had a day off in months.”
It seems the man once nicknamed “Captain Slow” has no intention of slowing down anytime soon.
Still Friends — Just on Different Roads
While The Grand Tour may have reached its final destination, the affection — and playful rivalry — between Clarkson, Hammond, and May continues to delight fans.
Clarkson remains immersed in farming life with his hit series, Hammond keeps tinkering with engines, and May explores the wider world with curiosity and wit.
And even though James May won’t be trading his tour bus for a tractor anytime soon, one thing is certain: the bond that made the trio so beloved endures — even when they’re taking swipes at each other from afar.
