Quentin Willson death: Top Gear star dies aged 68 due to lung cancer


Original Top Gear star and renowned car journalist Quentin Willson has died aged 68 after a short battle with lung cancer.

His family has confirmed the news in a long statement to the media.

“A true national treasure, Quentin brought the joy of motoring, from combustion to electric, into our living rooms,” Willson’s family said.

Watch the video above 

LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 30: Quentin Willson host of the Classic Car Show, first airing February 5 at 7pm on Channel 5, poses with an Aston Martin DB5, Mini Cooper and Jaguar E-type at Soho Hotel on January 30, 2015 in London, England. (Photo by Tristan Fewings/Getty Images for The Classic Car Show)
Car journalist and former Top Gear host Quentin Willson has passed away. (Getty)

“Much-loved husband to Michaela, devoted father to Mercedes, Max and Mini, and cherished grandfather to Saskia, Xander & Roxana.

“Quentin will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him personally and professionally.

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attends the launch of Bazaar ART magazine by Harper's Bazaar at The Halcyon Gallery, Bond Street, on October 3, 2013 in London, England.
Willson is survived by his wife (pictured) and children. (Getty)

“While messages of condolence are warmly appreciated, the family asks that their privacy be respected at this difficult time.

“Funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.

“The void he has left can never be filled. His knowledge was not just learned but lived; a library of experience now beyond our reach.”

Quentin Willson, motoring journalist and lead campaigner for FairFuelUK campaign group, outside No 10 Downing Street, London, after handing in a letter asking for a 3p cut in duty a week ahead of the Budget. (Photo by Yui Mok/PA Images via Getty Images)
He was also a campaigner. (Getty)

Willson helped shape the original version of Top Gear as one of its first hosts, alongside Jeremy Clarkson.

Willson went on to present Fifth Gear, as well as create and present Britain’s Worst Drivers and The Car’s The Star.

He was also an early adopter of electric vehicles, championing the GM EV1 and the promise of electric cars. His mission continued until recently, trying to make EVs affordable with his FairCharge campaign.

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Before this, he worked hard to lower and freeze the cost of fuel duty in the UK with his FairFuel campaign.

His TV talents expanded with a stint on Strictly Come Dancing in 2004, where he maintains the record for the lowest score ever given.

He and dance partner Hazel Newberry were awarded eight points out of 40, but the star never regretted signing up for it.

Quentin Willson on Top Gear
Quentin Willson seen on Top Gear. (BBC)

He told Metro last year that he believes “it’s really important for people in the public eye to make fun of themselves and to be made fun of.”

Tributes have poured in from his former colleagues.

Clarkson penned: “I’m far away so I’ve only just heard that Quentin Willson has died. We had some laughs over the years. Properly funny man,” on X.

Fellow former Top Gear host James May added: “Quentin Wilson gave me proper advice and encouragement during my earliest attempts at TV, back in the late 90s. I’ve never forgotten it. Great bloke.”

“Oh Quentin how can you leave us so soon,” added fellow Top Gear and Fifth Gear presenter Tiff Needell, “So many memories of the @BBC_TopGear we built in the nineties that I wanted to remember with you again.”

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