Jeremy Clarkson is set to be sacked from the BBC today, according to numerous UK media reports.
According to the Daily Telegraph, the BBC’s inquiry into Clarkson’s recent ‘fracas’ with Top Gear producer Oisin Tymon has concluded that the presenter launched a verbal assault on Tymon for around 20 minutes, followed by a “physical assault” that lasted for about half a minute.
The conflict allegedly started over cold cuts that were served for dinner instead of the steak that Clarkson had wanted after a long day of filming. But that did not happen as the hotel’s kitchen had closed by the time the crew arrived.
Clarkson was suspended once word of the dust-up made its way to the BBC bosses.
EVANS TO BE ROPED IN
The Telegraph’s story states that Clarkson’s sacking will be announced by BBC director general Lord Hall, while The Independent is reporting that Breakfast Show host Chris Evans has been asked to fill Clarkson’s shoes at Top Gear. Evans previously said that he has no interest whatsoever in filling that role, although BBC bosses are said to be trying to convince him to change his mind.
JEZZA'S NEXT MOVE?
Clarkson, on the other hand, is reportedly considering signing up with American network Netflix. Either way, the Top Gear star – who regularly lands in hot water of controversial statements – has no shortage of fans, and an online petition to reinstate him recently passed the 1-million mark.
However, nothing of his reported ‘sacking’ was official at the time of writing on Wednesday morning and the BBC reiterated: “No decision has been made. When we have an outcome, we will announce it.” Stay tuned.