What you really think about Aussie Top Gear
YOUR verdict on Top Gear Australia is in and the news isn’t promising for SBS.
We had an overwhelming response from readers to our story today - over 300 of you wrote comments - about the show’s plummeting ratings, with the majority of you saying it’s a pale imitation of the UK version.
“I would rather watch reruns of Bob Saget hosting Americas Funniest Home Videos than watch this crap again. Last night’s episode was an embarrassment,” said Brian of Perth.
“Terrible show. Forced, forced and more forced,” said Hootie.
“Far too scripted and very corny. Last night I switched off - the very first time I have ever done this to Top Gear (my wife almost fainted!),” said another reader.
“Yeah it’s a couple of stubbies short of a six pack alright,” said Bazza of Ipswich. “Just a bunch of bogans going on about Holden vs Ford and which ute is better. Who cares?”
“Why bother to watch a copy when you can get the original from the net without ads? Tastless. SBS is loosing viewers fast,” said John of Ryde.
Many of you complained about the casting, saying the three hosts were trying too hard to imitate their British counterparts.
“Concept is fantastic. Casting is woeful. All 3 of them are terrible. Almost caricatures,” said Maximus Rooke.
“Charlie Cox is about as entertaining as a visit to the dentist,” said Stephen of Sydney.
A lot of readers said the UK version was more about the chemistry between the hosts than the cars, including Susie of Perth.
“They’re forgetting that nearly half the audience in the UK are middle class females,” Susie said. “We’re not interested in the cars, it’s the chemistry, subtle humour and non-pc commentary that make it so hilarious to watch.
“The first two episodes of Australian Top Gear have been over-acted and overly blokey. Too much wheel-spinning and chest-thumping for my liking.”
On a positive note, some of you felt the second episode last night was a vast improvement on the first one and that it will only improve with time.
“Last night’s episode was much better. Hang in there guys!” said a supportive Rebecca of Canberra.
“The bar is pretty high from the English version, once the Aussie guys relax and actually talk to each other rather then recite lines, then the show may have a chance,” said Ben of Qld.
SBS says it’s confident ratings will improve and are still talking about a second series, but that remains to be seen.
As Phil of Sydney simply said, “RIP.”