Top Gear is the most watched factual TV programme in the world and now French audiences will have their very own local version. The entertaining and popular motoring series will be produced by BBC Worldwide France and is due to start filming later this year. It will air on RMC Découverte in France in 2015.
The local format of Top Gear will include many elements already familiar to audiences around the world with some added French twists and the presenters will be announced in due course.
RMC Découverte already broadcasts the original UK version of Top Gear – as well as Top Gear USA – and was the highest rated programme ever for the channel.
Jean Louis Blot, Executive Managing Director, Production, BBC Worldwide France said, “Top Gear has become a global phenomenon and is without a doubt, the biggest motoring TV programme in the world. The success of the UK series on RMC Découverte played a big part in securing this commission and I am thrilled to be working with them to create a local version of this iconic format for French audiences.”
Adam Waddell, Director of Entertainment Brands, BBC Worldwide said, “The French have some amazing roads and incredible scenery which is why Top Gear UK has often filmed there. Now French petrol heads are going to have their own version of the programme and I have no doubt that the hosts will bring their own personality and sense of humour to the new show. I can’t wait to watch it develop.”
Alain Weill from RMC and President of NextRadio TV said, “I’m pleased to announce a French version of Top Gear for RMC Découverte and it’s a great honour to be working with BBC Worldwide France to produce the format. Top Gear UK is already a success on our channel and is delivering its best channel ratings since its launch.”
Local versions of Top Gear already air in South Korea and USA and there will be a Chinese version launching later this year.
Top Gear is the latest British format to travel across the Channel. BBC Worldwide France has a successful history of producing local formats in France including Dancing with the Stars, The Great Bake Off, Sewing Bee, The Weakest Link and most recently, Antiques Roadshow.
