The motoring world is in mourning following the death of Quentin Willson, an original host of the BBC's iconic programme Top Gear. He was 68 years old.
Willson passed away after a short illness, as confirmed on November 8, 2025. He was a foundational figure in the show's history, having fronted its very first series.
A Pioneer of Top Gear's Golden Era
Willson's journey with Top Gear began in 1977, where he worked alongside a young Jeremy Clarkson long before the show achieved its global, stratospheric popularity. In later series, he also presented with Vicki Butler-Henderson and James May.
In an exclusive interview with Metro last year, Willson fondly recalled his time on the programme, describing it as a "wonderful golden age of cars and car programmes." He believed such a show would be difficult to make today, stating, "It wouldn't get screened, and people aren't as interested... or at least television commissioners aren't as interested in cars as they were then."
Thrills, Spills, and a Changing World
He openly admitted that filming involved its fair share of danger, with cars being driven "too fast" and crashes that are "probably not repeatable" in the modern television landscape. Willson noted this was especially poignant following Freddie Flintoff's near-fatal crash, which ultimately led to the show being taken off air.
"But it was a thrill ride in those days before health and safety," Willson added, reminiscing about being able to state speeds of 155 miles per hour on camera—something he acknowledged wouldn't happen now.
Despite the adrenaline, he emphasised the professional standards required by the BBC, insisting on being "factually accurate" to avoid critical letters from discerning viewers. He described himself as the more "measured and sensible" presenter of his group, though he tactfully refused to "name names" about who the "crazy one" was.
Quentin Willson's legacy is cemented as a key personality who helped shape one of British television's most successful exports, capturing a unique and unrepeatable moment in motoring history.
