The Grand Tour 2 host James May: ‘They are envious of my charm, wit and sophistication’

The second season of The Grand Tour, one of Amazon Prime Video’s ambitious projects with former Top Gear hosts Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May is set to make some subtle changes to the widely appreciated new format of the auto show. But there are a few things that remain unchanged. Like Clarkson underestimating everyone else on the planet, Hammond’s love for Porsche, and James May’s silver mane and sass. Continuing with his special brand of British dry humour, James May spills the beans about his ongoing banter with his co-hosts and driving a car full of fish...

Sequels are difficult because everybody knows the basic storyline. Does that increase the pressure on you to bring something amazing to the table for GT season 2?

Yes, but we’re fairly confident we can do it because we are quite experienced.

Top Gear lasted for almost three decades for you guys, now two seasons of The Grand Tour, what keeps the madness going between you, Clarkson, and Hammond?

Our mutual distress and disliking of one another. Which is what has always fuelled our creativity.

How do you come up with the crazy ideas or tasks for a particular episode, like the Beach Buggy race or try becoming one of the special forces soldiers in Jordan?

Beer. Lots of beer in the pub with Jeremy and Richard and the crew. It is a mixture of us and the crew coming up with various ideas and we talk them through together.

How will the season two differ from season one? Any new segments?

Ah, in very subtle and interesting ways, that will become apparent when you see it.

Why are you always picked on by the other two? That is one of the most visible common threads between Top Gear and The Grand Tour. There must be some history there.

Because they are resentful and envious of my charm, wit and sophistication. And my hair. Definitely my hair.

Quick-fire

Weirdest car you have ever driven?

I drove and flew the Taylor Aerocar.

The whackiest experience on Grand Tour season 2?           

 Driving around with a car full of fish.

What are you driving now?

Today I’m driving a Honda CB 750 Motorcycle.

Preferred co-host  — Clarkson or Hammond or neither?

Neither. I like myself.