10 Amazing Celebrity Moments on Top Gear’s Star in a Reasonably Priced Car You Need to See
The Top Gear track has long been a battleground for celebrities eager to prove their driving prowess behind the wheel of a ‘reasonably priced car.’ From Hollywood stars to music legends and even Formula 1 champions, each participant brings their unique flair to the circuit, striving to etch their names in the show’s hallowed leaderboard. This listicle revisits some of the most memorable laps, showcasing the thrilling and often unexpected talents of popular figures in motoring history.
10. Jimmy Carr’s Reckless Driving and Tire-Destroying Antics
Comedian Jimmy Carr surprised everyone with his fearless approach on the Top Gear track. The Stig noted he had “never met anyone who dicks about as much,” with Jimmy spinning out multiple times during his run. Despite his playful recklessness, Carr managed to secure a surprising lead on the leaderboard with his hair-raising lap in 2009.
9. Michael Gambon Creating “Gambon Corner” by Nearly Rolling the Car
In 2002, Sir Michael Gambon tackled the Top Gear track with such gusto that he famously took the final corner on two wheels, almost rolling the Suzuki Liana. The dramatic and unforgettable maneuver impressed Jeremy Clarkson so much that the corner was permanently renamed “Gambon” in his honor.
8. Aaron Paul Clinching the Top Leaderboard Spot
Breaking Bad star Aaron Paul dominated the Top Gear track in March 2014 while promoting his film Need For Speed. He set an impressive lap time of 1:44.7 in the Vauxhall Astra, beating AC/DC’s Brian Johnson’s previous record. Paul was clearly determined, even muttering his character’s iconic “bitch” catchphrase while taking a corner during his record-breaking run.
7. Tom Cruise’s Two-Wheeled Turn Through Gambon
Tom Cruise’s 2010 Top Gear appearance became instantly iconic when he dramatically powered through the final corner, Gambon, and lifted the car onto two wheels. Against all odds, he kept his cool, crossed the finish line, and set a stunningly fast lap—proving the Hollywood star’s driving skills were as impressive as his stunts.
6. Dame Ellen MacArthur’s Record-Breaking Performance
Dame Ellen MacArthur, renowned for her solo sailing circumnavigation record, dominated Top Gear’s track in 2005 with a blistering time of 1:46.7 in the Suzuki Liana. Her performance knocked Jimmy Carr off the top spot by just 0.2 seconds, making the world’s fastest sailor also the fastest Star in a Reasonably Priced Car at that time.
5. Brian Johnson’s “Smooth and Violent” Driving Style
AC/DC’s Brian Johnson thrilled fans on Series 13, Episode 6, with a lap that Jeremy Clarkson described as “smooth and violent.” Johnson attacked the Top Gear track with surprising precision and energy, clocking an impressive time of 1:45.9—matching TV presenter Kevin McCloud. It remains a classic celebrity performance.
4. Simon Cowell’s Memorable Lap
Simon Cowell made Top Gear history with his fiercely competitive streak and sharp wit. During his appearances, the music mogul not only insulted the “reasonably priced car” but also powered his way to the top of the leaderboard, eventually reclaiming the fastest lap for a celebrity with a time of 1:45.90.
3. Rowan Atkinson’s Formula One-Like Precision
Rowan Atkinson stunned both the hosts and fans during his 2011 appearance by clocking a blisteringly fast 1:42.2 lap time—beating even Tom Cruise and topping the leaderboard at the time. His smooth, controlled driving style and sharp consistency on the Top Gear track revealed his genuine racing talent beyond comedy fame.
2. Cameron Diaz Briefly Holding the Top Spot
Cameron Diaz made Top Gear history when she appeared alongside Tom Cruise in 2010. Driving the Kia Cee’d, she briefly claimed the top spot on the leaderboard, showcasing impressive driving skills that surprised viewers and the show’s hosts alike. This Hollywood A-lister proved she could handle more than just action scenes in movies by mastering the track in a humble Korean hatchback.
1. Celebrity F1 Drivers Taking on the Challenge
Top Gear’s “Star in a Reasonably Priced Car” famously pitted Formula 1 legends like Lewis Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel against one another in ordinary cars. Vettel’s 1:44.0 lap topped the F1 drivers’ leaderboard in 2011, proving even World Champions relish the humble thrill of Dunsfold’s corners.
Conclusion:
These unforgettable celebrity performances on the Top Gear track highlight the unpredictable and thrilling nature of the ‘Star in a Reasonably Priced Car’ segment. Whether through daring stunts, unexpected precision, or record-breaking performances, these stars have left a lasting legacy on the show. Their contributions not only entertained millions of viewers but also demonstrated that passion and skill behind the wheel are universal, extending beyond fame and into the heart of motoring enthusiasm.
