Former cricketer Andrew “Freddie” Flintoff has reached a settlement with the BBC following an accident that occurred while filming Top Gear in 2022. The settlement, reportedly worth £9 million, is based on the earnings Flintoff missed out on due to the accident. The incident took place on December 13, 2022, at Top Gear’s test track at Dunsfold Park Aerodrome in Surrey. The cricketer received medical care at the scene before being taken to the hospital for further treatment. It was initially reported that Flintoff had sustained “life-alteringly significant” injuries during the accident.
The settlement was made with BBC Studios, the commercial arm of the broadcaster, and will not be funded by the TV license fee. BBC Studios expressed their commitment to supporting Flintoff’s rehabilitation, return to work, and future plans and offered their sincere apologies for the incident.
Flintoff’s legal team made it clear that he is still recovering from the “life-alteringly significant” injuries. Flintoff was seen for the first time since the accident in September when he led fielding drills with England players in Cardiff ahead of the team’s one-day international with New Zealand. Visible scars and tape on his nose indicated the physical toll of the accident.
Andrew “Freddie” Flintoff, a former England cricket captain, retired from professional cricket in 2009. Throughout his cricketing career, he played 79 Tests, 141 one-day internationals, and seven T20 matches. After retiring from cricket, Flintoff transitioned into a career in broadcasting and joined BBC One’s Top Gear as a host in 2019, alongside Paddy McGuinness and Chris Harris. The trio of hosts has been well-received, and their most recent series of Top Gear attracted an average audience of 4.5 million viewers.
The accident that led to the settlement occurred while Flintoff was engaged in filming for the popular motoring television show. The incident raised concerns about safety measures during filming, prompting the BBC to take the matter seriously. The accident took place at the iconic Top Gear test track, known for hosting various high-speed stunts and challenges featured on the show. After the accident, filming of the series was immediately suspended, and a thorough review was initiated.
In March, the BBC formally apologized to Flintoff for the injuries he suffered and announced that a health and safety review of the show would be conducted. The review was expected to be carried out by an independent third party and would address the circumstances surrounding the incident, as well as the safety protocols in place during filming.
While the external investigation is still ongoing, the results may not be made public. However, it is expected that the findings and recommendations from the review will play a pivotal role in improving safety measures for future Top Gear productions.
The accident and subsequent settlement have brought attention to the potential risks involved in producing high-octane television programs like Top Gear. These programs often feature extreme stunts, fast driving, and challenging conditions, making safety a paramount concern for both the production crew and the hosts involved.
BBC Studios’ commitment to Flintoff’s rehabilitation and support for his future endeavors underscores the broadcaster’s responsibility toward its employees’ well-being and safety. The settlement provides some closure to a challenging chapter in Flintoff’s life, allowing him to focus on his recovery and future career opportunities.
The accident serves as a reminder of the inherent risks in the entertainment industry, particularly in productions that involve high-speed vehicles, stunts, and challenging scenarios. It highlights the importance of rigorous safety measures and thorough investigations when incidents occur, with a focus on preventing similar accidents in the future.
