Freddie Flintoff and his family are alleged to have believed that the antics he was undertaking for Top Gear were a “ask and a job too far,” and that his life was “more important” than any TV show.
Last year, it was revealed that the former professional cricketer was involved in a serious accident while filming the BBC show, requiring him to be evacuated to a hospital.
The 45-year-old was said to have had to wait over an hour for medical care after sustaining excruciating face injuries, as the BBC and the government’s Health and Safety Executive initiated investigations into the event.
Angela Rippon, 78, who hosted the first two series of Top Gear from 1977 to 1979, has revealed the letter she gave Flintoff following his accident.
According to The Sun, Rippon said that she ‘made a film with Freddie for the cancelled series’, having been filming with him in December 2022.
‘After his accident I sent him a text saying, “Next time you want to go around the course a bit slower, just give me a call,”’ she said.
The presenter continued: ‘I was just so sorry as they [Freddie and co-presenters] are not professional drivers and are asked to do things that even professional drivers very often would find difficult.
‘I think Freddie and his family decided this was an ask and a task too far and his life is more important than a television programme.’
Angela noted at the Tric Awards that Top Gear used to be a “motoring programme,” not “toys for the males” as it is today.
In a statement about Flintoff, the BBC said: ‘In March we concluded our investigation into the accident at the Top Gear Test Track in Surrey, which regrettably injured presenter Freddie Flintoff.
‘We have sincerely apologised to Freddie and continue to support him with his recovery. A health and safety review of the show is underway, in line with our procedures.’
Chief content officer Charlotte Moore also previously said: ‘My priority at the moment is supporting Freddie through his recovery so I think it would be really inappropriate for us to resume filming now.
‘I think when we get to the point where he feels ready … and we’ll get to thinking about getting him back.’
She added: ‘I think we’ve got to talk about what Freddie wants to do. When someone’s in recovery, I don’t think we would push that … I think that would be really inappropriate, I wouldn’t be happy.’
Source My Celebrity Life.