Jeremy Clarkson: Everything you need to know about his health

Jeremy Clarkson is one of the most recognisable figures in British television, known as much for his sharp wit and acerbic commentary as for his encyclopaedic knowledge of cars. From the iconic motoring show Top Gear, where he became both a beloved and controversial figure, to The Grand Tour and Clarkson’s Farm, Clarkson has built a career spanning decades, capturing the attention of millions. Whether viewers loved him or loved to criticise him, few could ignore him.

Clarkson’s persona is that of a fearless, larger-than-life individual, someone who drives fast, speaks first and thinks later, and embraces the absurd with glee. Yet behind the humour and daring stunts lies a man who, in recent years, has faced his own fragility. A series of serious health scares has forced Clarkson to confront mortality in a way few of his fans have seen. This article examines Clarkson’s health journey, the lifestyle changes he has adopted, and the reflection and determination that have emerged as a result.

The Heart Scare: A Wake-Up Call

In October 2024, Clarkson’s health took a dramatic turn while on holiday. He experienced symptoms that alarmed him immediately: “clammy,” “a tightness in my chest,” and “pins and needles in my left arm.” Initially, Clarkson tried to shrug it off, attributing the discomfort to exertion and perhaps a bit of overindulgence. However, the symptoms persisted, prompting him to seek medical attention.

At the hospital, doctors quickly identified the gravity of the situation. One of Clarkson’s coronary arteries was completely blocked, while a second was on the verge of blockage. He was at risk of a potentially fatal heart attack. Surgeons acted swiftly, fitting two stents to restore blood flow, in a procedure that lasted approximately two hours. Reflecting on the operation, Clarkson said: “It wasn’t especially painful – just odd,” and added with his characteristic humour, “Crikey, that was close.”

This heart scare was a pivotal moment. Known for his fearless public persona, Clarkson now faced a vulnerability that could not be joked away. The incident forced a confrontation with mortality, something that would reshape his priorities, routines, and outlook on life.

Lifestyle Overhaul: From Indulgence to Discipline

Post-surgery, Clarkson’s doctors laid down strict guidelines. He was advised to reduce the intensity and amount of work he was doing, swap high-risk physical activities for gentler forms, and most significantly, overhaul his diet. The changes were drastic. Clarkson revealed:

“I’ve had a week now to live in the new regime and it’s horrific … everything I like eating has to go: bacon, sausages, beef, lamb, pork, butter, chips, proper milk, Cadbury’s fruit and nut bars, and the interesting bit in an egg.”

For a man whose public persona celebrates indulgence and excess, this dietary regime was more than inconvenient; it was a challenge to identity. Clarkson admitted:

“The worst problem though is diet … everything I like eating … must go.”

Despite the difficulty, he accepted that these changes were necessary.

Exercise was also addressed. Clarkson adopted gentler forms of movement, such as Pilates, which he described as “not feeling like traditional exercise.” These modifications, while minor in appearance, represented a significant departure from his previous, adrenaline-fuelled lifestyle.

Motivation: Family and Reflection

One of the most compelling motivators for Clarkson has been family, particularly his grandchildren. “I want it to go on for as long as is humanly possible,” he said, reflecting a new perspective that places family over fame or spectacle. For a man who has often lived life at full throttle, this expressed desire to see loved ones grow was a grounding influence.

Clarkson also recognised the role of luck in his survival up to this point.

“So far I’ve relied on luck to keep me alive,” he admitted. “I have to work at dodging the bullets.”

This awareness led to an intentional focus on longevity, health, and meaningful engagement rather than the reckless abandon that characterised much of his earlier life.

Other Health Concerns

Clarkson’s health challenges have not been limited to his heart. He revealed he has a trapped nerve in his back, which causes discomfort during everyday activities, including driving. He described it as:

“staying still is impossible … it pitches and rolls all the time,” highlighting the difficulties in balancing work and recovery.

In addition, Clarkson has discussed concerns regarding dementia, linked to his long-term hearing loss.

“My brain is having to use a huge amount of computing power trying to fill in the bits of speech it hasn’t been able to hear,” he admitted.

This candid acknowledgment of cognitive risk reflects his willingness to face not just physical vulnerability but also potential neurological decline.

Returning to Work: Adaptation and Determination

Despite these health issues, Clarkson has returned to filming Clarkson’s Farm, albeit with adjustments to accommodate his medical needs. He has embraced gentler forms of exercise and pacing himself, balancing his professional commitments with his personal health. “

I must do everything in my power to not die,” he reiterated, showing a pragmatic determination.

Clarkson’s work ethic remains strong, but it is now informed by caution and awareness. The man who once delighted in pushing himself to extremes is learning to measure risk, adapt routines, and focus on sustainable activity.

Career Anecdotes and Humour in Adversity

Throughout his health journey, Clarkson has maintained his characteristic humour. Speaking about lifestyle changes, he joked about giving up foods he loved and compared exercise to a necessary chore rather than enjoyment:

“Pilates doesn’t feel like traditional exercise, which is just as well because I’d rather be doing anything else.”

He also reflects on the absurdities of his new life: small tasks, such as emptying a dishwasher or lifting a heavy object, now come with caution and consideration, a stark contrast to his previous fearless approach. Yet his wit remains intact, providing levity even in serious situations.

Broader Reflections: Ageing, Celebrity, and Health

Clarkson’s experiences mirror a broader reality faced by ageing public figures: the confrontation with mortality, health limitations, and the need to adapt life-long habits. His openness about heart surgery, diet, exercise, and cognitive risk provides an unusual window into the life of a celebrity who must reconcile public persona with private vulnerability.

The narrative of Clarkson’s health journey illustrates not just personal resilience, but also the societal fascination with celebrity health and the messages it conveys about lifestyle, ageing, and responsibility.

Conclusion: A New Chapter

Jeremy Clarkson’s recent health challenges mark a turning point in a life otherwise defined by excess, speed, and spectacle. The heart operation, nerve issues, and risk of dementia have forced him to confront mortality, adopt a healthier lifestyle, and prioritise family over fame.

He remains determined to live life on his own terms, but with a newfound awareness of fragility and responsibility. As Clarkson himself has said: “I am buying time,” a phrase that captures his pragmatic yet determined approach to the years ahead. The man who once seemed invincible now shows a side of resilience that is both humanising and inspiring, proving that even the boldest personalities must adapt when faced with the ultimate reality: mortality.

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Sources:

Mail Online: Jeremy Clarkson shares health update after revealing he is at 'double risk' of getting dementia

The Guardian: Jeremy Clarkson’s Sun article on Meghan was sexist, says press regulator

Express: Jeremy Clarkson breaks silence on hidden health scare after sudden weight loss and surgery

The Telegraph: Jeremy Clarkson was ‘maybe days away’ from fatal heart attack

The Sun: Jeremy Clarkson rushed for heart surgery after sudden health deterioration