Paramount+ and BBC Studios Australia and New Zealand today announced an Australian version of Top Gear.
The eight part motoring series, produced by BBC Studios local production arm, is parking itself on Paramount+ Australia in 2024.
The mechanics behind Top Gear Australia have given the series a tune up, introducing three new hosts: Music composer and car enthusiast Blair Joscelyne; presenter, actor and singer Beau Ryan; and actor and television personality Jonathan LaPaglia.
Blair “Moog” Joscelyne is the co-creator of the indie auto YouTube series Mighty Car Mods. With his best mate Marty Mulholland, the independent automotive series began in 2007, when Marty and Moog started filming videos in Marty’s mum's driveway.
“It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity when you get asked to be part of one of the biggest motoring shows in the world," Joscelyne says.
"And I will take my job seriously of frying the tyres of any vehicle that the producers are irresponsible enough to hand me the keys to.”
Beau Ryan is not only the host of The Amazing Race Australia but in 2024 he will also co-host of Gladiators on 10.
"I'm super excited to be part of such an iconic franchise and can't wait to bring it back to Australia," he says.
"So, fasten your seatbelts, because this is going to be one hell of a ride!"
Actor Jonathan LaPaglia has been steering Australian Survivor Castaways through their most demanding trials.
“When Network 10 and BBC Studios asked me if I’d be interested traveling all over the world to test really cool cars and behave like an idiot I said, “Of course I’m interested. Where do I sign?" says LaPaglia.
"Top Gear is arguably the biggest (and greatest) car show ever and as a massive fan I used to fantasise being on it one day as a guest racing the Reasonably Priced Car around their test track.
"I waited, that call never came. But 20 years later someone at Top Gear HQ screwed up, confused me with someone else, and asked me to be the host of Top Gear Australia? Buckle up, this could get bumpy!”
Daniel Monaghan, SVP content & programming, Paramount Australia & New Zealand, says Top Gear Australia promises to deliver everything fans love about the show but with an Aussie twist.
"We can’t wait for Jonathan, Beau and Blair to get behind the wheel of the world’s biggest car entertainment show," he says.
Kylie Washington, general manager and creative director, production, BBC Studios Australia and New Zealand, says Top Gear is a global juggernaut which has entertained viewers in over 150 territories worldwide.
"We are excited to bring this fresh, new-imagining of the show to Australian audiences together with Paramount+" says Washington.
"In Jonathan, Beau and Blair we have found a winning combination of expert knowledge and on-screen chemistry that we know audiences will love.”
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