Quentin Willson, renowned for his roles on Top Gear and Fifth Gear, has passed away at 68 after a brief struggle with lung cancer, his family announced.
Willson was a pivotal figure on Top Gear, serving as the resident used car specialist from 1991 for ten years, during which he became one of the show’s original stars.
Throughout his tenure on the program, he collaborated with notable personalities like Jeremy Clarkson, Vicki Butler-Henderson, and James May.
Following his stint on Top Gear, Willson transitioned to Channel 5, leading the competing automotive series Fifth Gear. He also showcased his versatility by participating in Strictly Come Dancing.
In the latter part of his life, Willson emerged as a passionate advocate, spearheading the FairFuel campaign to reduce fuel duty and championing electric vehicles.
In a poignant farewell, his family hailed him as a ‘true national treasure’ who brought the joy of motoring—from traditional combustion engines to electric vehicles—into countless homes.
They said he died surrounded by his family on Saturday, following a short battle with lung cancer.
The statement said: ‘The family of Quentin Willson, television presenter and producer, motoring journalist, author, and campaigner, wish to announce that he passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Saturday 8th November, following a short battle with lung cancer. He was 68.
‘A true national treasure, Quentin brought the joy of motoring, from combustion to electric, into our living rooms.
‘He helped shape the original Top Gear as one of its first hosts, working alongside Jeremy Clarkson and the team who took the pioneering show global.
Former Top Gear and Fifth Gear presenter Quentin Willson has died at the age of 68 following a short battle with lung cancer , his family said
Willson was the show’s used car expert for a decade before he went on to front Channel 5’s rival motoring show Fifth Gear
Willson later went on to front Channel 5 ‘s rival motoring show Fifth Gear and also appeared on Strictly Come Dancing
‘He went on to front Fifth Gear and still holds the dubious honour of Strictly Come Dancing’s lowest score in history.
‘Through his FairFuel campaign, Quentin saved UK consumers a fortune by helping to freeze fuel duty. Over £100 billion in fresh taxation was prevented by the campaign, a real consumer win by a true consumer champion.
‘He also created and presented much-loved programmes such as Britain’s Worst Drivers and The Cars the Star.
‘Long before it was fashionable, he championed the GM EV1 and the promise of electric cars, proving he was always ahead of the curve.
‘More recently he had worked tirelessly to make EVs affordable for all, via his FairCharge campaign.
‘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.
‘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.’
During his time on the programme, Willson worked alongside Jeremy Clarkson, Vicki Butler-Henderson and James May
Willson is pictured in 2001 on a BBC programme investigating the biggest car fraud in the world
Willson is pictured with Richard Branson in Notting Hill
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