Updated on: October 8, 2024 11:22 am GMT
Former Top Gear presenter Chris Harris has revealed that he raised serious safety concerns with the BBC three months prior to Andrew “Freddie” Flintoff’s life-threatening accident in December 2022. Talking on the Joe Rogan Experience podcast, Harris emphasized the potential dangers associated with the show’s filming practices and the need for immediate changes to prevent serious injuries or fatalities.
Safety Concerns Prior to the Accident
During his interview with Rogan, Harris recounted his discussions with BBC executives about safety protocols on the show. He warned that unless the network implemented significant changes, a “serious injury” or even a “fatality” was imminent. His grave predictions came to fruition when Flintoff, an experienced cricketer, was involved in a crash while driving a three-wheeled Morgan supercar at the Dunsfold test track.
Harris stated, “What was never spoken about was that three months before the accident, I’d gone to the BBC and said, ‘Unless you change something, someone’s going to die on this show.’ I told them of my concerns from what I’d seen, as the most experienced driver on the show by a mile.” He further noted that both Flintoff and fellow presenter Paddy McGuinness, while talented entertainers, lacked the automotive experience necessary to drive the vehicles safely during filming.
The Incident and its Aftermath
On the day of the incident, Flintoff was reportedly not wearing a crash helmet, which Harris asserted significantly increased the risk of severe injury, even at relatively low speeds. Harris remembered rushing to the scene after hearing a radio message that Flintoff’s car had overturned and was “upside down.” Upon arrival, he feared the worst: “He wasn’t moving, so I thought he was dead. I assumed he was, then he moved.” Flintoff, measuring six-foot-six and known for his physical prowess, sustained multiple injuries, particularly to his face and ribs, but his strength likely helped him survive the catastrophic crash.
Results of the Independent Review
In light of Flintoff’s accident, BBC Studios conducted an independent health and safety review of Top Gear, the findings of which were released in 2023. Although the review concluded that the production complied with industry best practices, it also highlighted several areas for improvement. The report recommended a detailed action plan to enhance safety measures, emphasizing the importance of clear roles and responsibilities among crew members and improved communication between teams during the production process.
A spokesperson for BBC Studios stated, “The report included a number of recommendations to improve approaches to safety as Top Gear is a complex programme-making environment routinely navigating tight filming schedules and ambitious editorial expectations.” These recommendations aim to prevent similar incidents in future productions if Top Gear resumes.
Flintoff’s Current Status and Contributions
Following the accident, Flintoff took time away from the spotlight to recover. He has since returned to television in a new BBC series titled Freddie Flintoff’s Field of Dreams, where he has openly discussed the psychological impact of the crash, including struggles with anxiety, nightmares, and flashbacks. Moreover, Flintoff has rejoined the England men’s cricket team as part of the backroom staff for the T20 series against the West Indies and is coaching the Northern Superchargers in The Hundred tournament.
Harris’s Continued Contributions to Broadcast Media
As for Chris Harris, he continues to hold a prominent role in automotive television. He is slated to present a new road trip series for the BBC alongside McGuinness, which is currently in production. Harris remains dedicated to improving safety and practices in the industry, underscoring the need for his voice to be heard in matters of safety, particularly in high-risk activities such as automotive entertainment.
Ongoing Discussions About Top Gear’s Future
The future of Top Gear remains uncertain as the show is reportedly on hiatus following the accident and the ongoing discussions surrounding safety protocols. Co-presenter James May has called for a rethinking of the show’s format in light of recent events. Despite the challenges, the enduring appeal of car culture and automotive entertainment continues to resonate with audiences, creating a pressing dialogue about balancing thrilling content with safety and responsibility.
As they keep talking and looking into things, both Harris and the BBC are working hard to find the right mix between fun and safety. They want to make shows like Top Gear thrilling while also keeping everyone safe.