Quentin Willson, known for hosting the popular show Top Gear, has died at the age of 68. His family announced that he passed away peacefully after a short battle with lung cancer, with loved ones by his side.
Jason Willson was a popular presenter on the BBC’s Top Gear in the 1990s, and often appeared with Jeremy Clarkson.
He hosted the show for ten years, from 1991 until 2001, and then moved to Channel 5 to host Fifth Gear. He also presented other popular programs throughout his career, including Britain’s Worst Drivers and The Car’s the Star.
His family described him as a remarkable figure who brought the excitement of cars – both traditional and electric – into people’s homes.
Besides his work on television, Willson was a passionate advocate for drivers. He famously led the FairFuel campaign to keep fuel prices down and, more recently, worked with FairCharge to make electric vehicles more accessible. This year, he strongly criticized a UK government decision to ease regulations for electric vehicles, calling it a serious mistake.
Willson was an early believer in electric cars, embracing them well before they became mainstream. His family recalled him as consistently innovative, remembering his excitement about cars like the GM EV1. He was a loving husband to Michaela, a dedicated father to Mercedes, Max, and Mini, and a cherished grandfather.
People from the automotive and broadcasting industries have been sharing their memories and praise. James May, who used to co-host Top Gear with him, recalled that Quentin Willson offered valuable support and guidance when May was first starting out on television in the late 1990s, and he’s always remembered that kindness.
Originally from Leicester, Willson was also a successful writer. For fifteen years, he wrote weekly columns for the Mirror and Sunday Mirror, and he contributed to Classic Cars magazine. In 2004, he was recognized as Motoring Writer of the Year at the British Press Awards.
He also became well-known for appearing on Strictly Come Dancing in 2004. He’s remembered for receiving the lowest score ever given on the show, which he earned during his cha-cha-cha routine.
Ginny Buckley, CEO of Electrifying.com, commended his commitment to helping more people drive electric cars. She described him as friendly, willing to share his expertise, and consistently kind.
Lawrence Whittaker, who owns Lister Cars, shared, “He had an incredible understanding of cars – truly the most knowledgeable person I ever knew. We worked together for over a decade, and he completely changed the UK car industry with his writing and advocacy. We’ll miss you, Q – rest in peace.”
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2025-11-09 00:14