Top Gear: What Happened To Jason Dawe After Being Replaced By James May?
There are dark times in the history of Top Gear. There was once a time, for example, where Richard Hammond hadn’t yet crashed, or even taken his first steps onto the Top Gear Test Track. In fact, the track didn’t even make an appearance until Top Gear’s new beginning in 2002 with Jeremy Clarkson firmly at the helm of the show alongside Richard Hammond and Jason Dawe. Wait… who?
Jason Dawe was the third presenter to complete the magical trio when the show first started after its reboot. A lot of viewers of the show now won’t remember him – probably due to the fact that he was only involved for the first series. As soon as Series 2 dropped, so did his employment on Top Gear and instead, James May was brought in.
But where is he now? What is he doing? Well to answer that I must first explain to you what he brought to the show in the first place.
His specialities revolved around the used car market. He once bragged that he buys cars for only £900 and drives them until they die – something that didn’t really fit in with the Top Gear ethos. Nevertheless, he used his knowledge of the used market to produce informative content for the show, and he was perfectly good at it.
After his leaving, he went on to create a program called ‘Used Car Roadshow’ alongside Penny Mallory on ITV4. This covered, as I’m sure you’ve worked out, used cars and what to look for on them. Eventually, though, the show was cancelled due to low ratings.
He now specialises in speech writing, and writing for motoring outlets like Top Gear Magazine and AutoTrader.
Do you wish he’d stayed? Let me know in the comments what you think!
I only recently watched the first season of Top Gear (reboot). Jason Dawe somehow didn’t seem to fit in. Hammond in interviewing Dawe each week on used car deals came across as eager and interested, but I strongly suspect Hammond didn’t find it at all interesting. James May on the other hand took to the role right from the outset. He immediately was quite at home, where Jason Dawe seldom appeared to be.
Hey Alex,
Nice to read about Mr. Dawe and that he’s still remebered as initial Top Gear host. Nowadays he often hosts live or digital events for different companies as a main host. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting him on different occasions on live product trainings for a major car manufacturer. He is the best and has a true and good hearted personality and is fun guy always wearing a smile and in good mood. I am looking forward to have another drink with him hopefully soon!
Take care and stay safe!
Best regards
Denis from Switzerland
While I believe May was a great pick Jason should of stayed. The four would have made a great team each having their own expertise.
Jason Dawe, brought a lot to the show, simple but effective presentation, similar in appearance to zmike Brewer; but a hell of a lot more palatable. Top gear then was more consumer/customer based, more of a genuine car show, suitable for enthusiasts and novices in the world of motors.
Once May, Clarkson and Hammond ran with it, the car side dropped off and 3 middle age blokes living the playboy lifestyle took over, still watchable,; but not so much a car show; more a big boys adventure.
I love James May! He’s adorable and funny. I dobt remember Jason Fawe. I always buy used cars, so I would have enjoyed him too, probably.
No may fits in perfect