SBC News Voice of the Sports Betting Industry
Sue Perkins the host of the BBC’s Great British Bake Off has been made favourite by UK bookmakers to replace axed Top Gear host Jeremy Clarkson.
Perkins a lead face for the BBC has been priced at evens to replace the controversial Clarkson , she is followed by X Factor host Dermot O’Leary (2/1) and former super model and car enthusiast Jodie Kidd (5/2).
UK bookmaker Coral confirmed last week that it had taken a flurry of bets on Perkins becoming the lead host of Top Gear.
Coral s PR Manager Nicola McGeady said: “This latest gamble suggests that Sue Perkins is being lined up to replace Jeremy Clarkson on Top Gear. When betting first opened on Clarkson’s successor, it was one-way traffic for Jodie Kidd and now today’s flutter has convinced us that a female is in the driving seat”.
Perkins’ representatives have yet to comment on the Top Gear hosting speculation, as Jeremy Clarkson future with the BBC remains uncertain following a physical altercation with Top Gear producer Oisin Tymon. Clarkson was official suspended by the BBC on March 10, the broadcaster further confirmed that his contract would not be renewed.
UK Media insiders have noted that the BBC may look to change the profile and style of Top Gear, which Clarkson had hosted since 2002. A female lead would be welcome by many inside the BBC, as Top Gear had become renowned for its controversial material which was often criticised and deemed inappropriate for the state-owned broadcaster.
