The highly anticipated final episode of The Grand Tour, titled “Sand Job,” aired on February 16th, 2024. While this marked the end of the tent-based format, a string of further specials are planned, making the question of the absolute last episode release date a moving target, likely in late 2024 or early 2025.
The Road Ahead: Understanding the Grand Tour’s Future
The announcement that Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May would be stepping away from the structured format of The Grand Tour sent shockwaves through the motoring world. However, it’s not quite curtains for the trio. Amazon Prime Video has confirmed several more specials are in the works, effectively extending their adventures and giving fans more of what they love. To understand the timeline, we need to delve into what’s confirmed and what remains speculation.
Beyond “Sand Job”: Specials Galore
“Sand Job,” set in Mauritania, was a critical and commercial success, reminding viewers of the unique blend of humor, camaraderie, and motoring mayhem that defines The Grand Tour. But the story doesn’t end there. At least two more specials are confirmed, and rumors suggest potentially even more. These specials, unlike the tent-based episodes, will be self-contained adventures in exotic locations, focusing primarily on the motoring challenges and the presenters’ personalities.
The confirmed filming locations include:
- Mauritania (Sand Job): Aired February 16th, 2024
- Untitled Special: A confirmed special, rumored to be filmed in Zimbabwe, anticipated to air later in 2024.
- Untitled Special: Another confirmed special, details currently unknown, but expected in late 2024 or early 2025.
The release schedule for these specials is yet to be formally announced by Amazon Prime Video. Production timelines, editing, and marketing considerations all play a role in determining the final air dates. However, based on previous release patterns, we can estimate that the Zimbabwe special will likely air in the latter half of 2024, possibly in the fall or early winter. The following special would then follow in late 2024 or early 2025. This leads us to the conclusion that the absolute last episode of The Grand Tour is projected to be released in late 2024 or early 2025.
The End of an Era, Not the End of the Road
It’s crucial to distinguish between the end of The Grand Tour‘s original format and the end of Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May working together on Amazon Prime Video. While the tent and the studio audience are gone, the dynamic that made the show so successful is set to continue in the form of these feature-length specials. This means fans can look forward to more adventures, more challenges, and more of the presenters’ trademark banter, albeit in a different format.
FAQs: Your Burning Grand Tour Questions Answered
To further clarify the situation surrounding The Grand Tour‘s future, here are some frequently asked questions:
1. Why did The Grand Tour end its original format?
The decision to move away from the tent-based format was reportedly a mutual one between the presenters and Amazon. A primary driver was the desire to focus on the travel and adventure aspects of the show, which proved consistently popular with viewers. The logistics of the tent-based format, including audience travel and setup, were also becoming increasingly challenging and expensive.
2. Will there be more than two additional Grand Tour specials after “Sand Job”?
As of the latest information, two further specials are confirmed by Amazon Prime Video. Rumors and speculation exist about additional specials beyond these two, but without official confirmation, they should be considered unconfirmed. Keep an eye on official announcements from Amazon and the presenters themselves for any updates.
3. Where is the rumored Zimbabwe special filmed?
While the specific locations within Zimbabwe remain closely guarded secrets, reports suggest the special involves traversing challenging terrain and exploring diverse landscapes within the country. Expect the usual dose of mechanical mishaps, humorous interactions, and breathtaking scenery.
4. Are Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May retiring from television?
No. While The Grand Tour in its original form is ending, all three presenters have individual projects in the works. Clarkson continues with “Clarkson’s Farm” on Amazon Prime Video, while Hammond and May have pursued other television ventures, both individually and together.
5. Will Andy Wilman still be involved in the upcoming Grand Tour specials?
Yes. Andy Wilman, the long-time executive producer and creative force behind The Grand Tour and Top Gear before it, remains heavily involved in the upcoming specials. His influence is crucial in shaping the show’s distinctive style and ensuring its continued success.
6. How can I stay updated on the release dates of new Grand Tour episodes?
The best way to stay informed is to follow the official Amazon Prime Video social media channels, as well as the social media accounts of Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May. News outlets specializing in automotive and entertainment content will also likely report on any announcements.
7. Will the Grand Tour specials still be exclusive to Amazon Prime Video?
Yes. The new specials, like the previous episodes of The Grand Tour, will be exclusively available to Amazon Prime Video subscribers.
8. What kind of vehicles can we expect to see in the upcoming specials?
Given the presenters’ penchant for the unexpected, it’s difficult to predict the exact vehicles that will feature. However, expect a mix of rugged off-roaders, possibly some classic cars adapted for challenging environments, and undoubtedly some unconventional choices that lead to hilarious situations.
9. Will there be any guest appearances in the upcoming specials?
While the focus will remain on the core trio of Clarkson, Hammond, and May, guest appearances are not entirely out of the question. However, the emphasis will likely be on the adventures and the presenters’ interactions with each other and the local cultures they encounter.
10. Will the upcoming specials be as long as previous Grand Tour episodes?
The exact runtime of the upcoming specials is yet to be confirmed, but it’s likely they will be similar in length to the previous feature-length specials, typically around 90 minutes to two hours.
11. Is it possible to rewatch previous Grand Tour episodes?
Yes. All previous episodes of The Grand Tour are available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video.
12. What’s the legacy of The Grand Tour, and what can we expect from its future specials?
The Grand Tour has established itself as a unique and beloved motoring show, thanks to its blend of stunning visuals, thrilling adventures, and the undeniable chemistry of its presenters. The future specials promise to continue this legacy, offering more of the same entertainment but in a new, exciting format. While the familiar tent is gone, the spirit of adventure and the camaraderie of Clarkson, Hammond, and May will continue to entertain audiences worldwide. The lasting legacy is the reinvention of the automotive show genre, focusing on travel, personality, and humor, rather than pure technical specs. This formula will likely continue to be successful in the forthcoming specials.