Top Gear Season 19 Christmas Special Begins Filming, Airs in February
Jeremy Clarkson confirms the start of filming for Top Gear’s Season 19 Christmas Special, with the episode scheduled to be broadcast in February 2013.
Filming for Top Gear’s Season 19 Christmas Special began on 3 October 2012, with Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May heading out to start work on the long-anticipated episode. Clarkson confirmed the start of production via his official Twitter account, noting that the team was preparing for cold conditions and that the special would air in February 2013, rather than during the Christmas period.
The decision to broadcast the Christmas Special in February is not a first for Top Gear, which has previously aired festive-themed episodes outside the traditional holiday slot. Clarkson addressed the unusual timing, stating that although February is not Christmas, the episode will retain its established festive branding. No explanation for the delayed broadcast has been given, but the approach mirrors previous years where scheduling has shifted to accommodate production timelines or BBC programming priorities.
Presenters Return After Contract Renewal
The start of filming comes shortly after the BBC renewed contracts with Clarkson, Hammond and May for another three years, securing the trio’s presence on the show through multiple upcoming series. The continuity ensures that the established dynamic between the presenters remains in place for the new season and its specials.
With the presenters confirmed, production on Season 19 is underway. Alongside the Christmas Special, the season will include other high-profile challenges, such as a Pan-European race. Details on the specific content of the Christmas Special have not been released, but the show’s history suggests a large-scale international road trip or adventure, in line with previous specials such as the Bolivia and Vietnam episodes. For those interested in earlier specials, the Bolivia Special from Season 14 remains a viewer favourite (see /video-top-gear-season-14-episode-6).
What to Expect from Season 19
Top Gear’s Christmas Specials have become known for ambitious road trips and elaborate challenges, often filmed in remote or challenging locations. While the production team has not revealed the destination or vehicles involved in the Season 19 special, the established format suggests viewers can expect a mix of adventure, automotive mishaps and the presenters’ trademark humour. The February air date places the special at the heart of the new season’s run, rather than as a standalone festive event.
The new season’s broader line-up is expected to follow Top Gear’s established formula of car reviews, races and special features, building on the show’s status as one of the BBC’s flagship entertainment programmes. Further details on episode content and broadcast dates for the rest of Season 19 remain to be announced.
