Clarkson’s Farm has attracted fans with its depiction of presenter Jeremy Clarkson going through the highs and lows of farm life, but just how much has Jeremy been paid for the popular show?
Jeremy Clarkson’s shift from the fast-paced world of journalism to the tranquil countryside of farming has fascinated audiences in the popular series Clarkson’s Farm.
As the show resumes on Amazon Prime Video for its third series, Jeremy and his partner Lisa Hogan immerse themselves in farm life at Diddly Squat, from lambing to tractor driving.
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Jeremy’s transformation from celebrity presenter to farmer has been an enlightening experience, as underscored by the unexpected revelation at the close of Clarkson’s Farm’s debut series. Jeremy was shocked to learn that he had earned a mere £144 for the entire year, after significant expenses were subtracted.
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Although his celebrity status provides a financial safety net, Jeremy has shown genuine compassion for the struggles faced by fellow farmers enduring considerable losses. Despite his modest farm earnings, the star is reported to have an overall net worth of £43 million, and remains in high demand.
Earnings
According to reports from the Mirror, the presenter was offered a three-series deal with Amazon Prime for the successful show that could potentially see him earning more than £200 million.
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In the new series, we observe as Lisa, Jeremy’s partner, takes charge in the farm shop. However, she receives a stern warning from land agent Charlie Ireland after attempting to sell items not sourced locally. In one episode, he warns her that she risks a criminal record if she continues to sell goods originating from beyond 16 miles of the farm.
Ahead of the third series of Clarkson’s Farm, Lisa declared that she wasn’t afraid to face prison. “I was going to take one for the team literally,” she said. “You pay so much in business rates, taxes, then you give it to them and they use it to fight to close you down.”
Suppliers
“It seems strange, the behaviour,” she added. “They’ve done me a favour actually because I wouldn’t have found half of my suppliers unless I really had to search for them within 16 miles. So I’m really grateful to them for that. But I just think [the council] overreacts a little bit sometimes.”
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Speaking about working with Jeremy on the farm, Lisa said that she finds spending 24/7 with him “pretty easy”. “We’re probably so totally co-dependent at this stage because we spend so much time together but he’s so interesting,” she said. “He’s so fascinating and I just love watching the way his brain works, and I always get surprised.
Jeremy Clarkson bought Diddly Squat Farm in 2008. Originally, the land was used for growing crops and was managed by a villager until the farmer retired in 2019. After the retirement of a local farmer, Clarkson faced a decision point. Instead of leasing the land to another farmer, he chose to take over the farm’s operations himself.
This marked the beginning of his hands-on involvement in farming. His decision was driven largely by curiosity and a desire for a new challenge, as well as an opportunity to engage directly with rural life and agriculture.
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The exact number of animals on Diddly Squat Farm can vary, but as depicted in the series “Clarkson’s Farm,” Jeremy Clarkson has managed a variety of livestock. This includes sheep, cows, and chickens. The farm initially started with a small flock of sheep, and over time, Clarkson has expanded his livestock holdings.
Clarkson’s Farm Cast
“Clarkson’s Farm” features a delightful cast that revolves around Jeremy Clarkson himself as he navigates the unfamiliar world of farming. The series provides an honest and often humorous look at his attempts to manage Diddly Squat Farm in the Cotswolds, an area known for its outstanding natural beauty in the heart of England.
The main characters include:
- Jeremy Clarkson – Best known for his work on “Top Gear” and “The Grand Tour,” Clarkson’s venture into farming is marked by his characteristic wit and a refreshingly candid approach. Despite his lack of farming knowledge, his enthusiasm and willingness to learn make him a compelling central figure.
- Kaleb Cooper – A young and spirited farmer, Kaleb is essential to the series, often serving as Clarkson’s guide and sometimes his comic foil. His deep knowledge of farming and his no-nonsense approach to correcting Clarkson’s frequent mistakes have made him a fan favourite. Kaleb’s passion for farming and his dedication to the Cotswolds’ agricultural traditions shine through in every episode.
- Lisa Hogan – Clarkson’s girlfriend and a supportive figure in his farming endeavours, Lisa often appears in the series contributing her own efforts and insights. Her role expands in the later series, where she takes a more active part in running the farm shop, adding her personal touch and facing the challenges it brings.
- Gerald Cooper – The dry stone waller and land worker, Gerald is notable for his broad Gloucestershire accent, which is often so thick that subtitles are required. His expertise and traditional methods add a layer of authenticity and charm to the farm’s operations.
- Charlie Ireland – The farm’s no-nonsense land agent, Charlie is often seen guiding and sometimes admonishing Clarkson on the bureaucratic and legal aspects of farming. His role is crucial in highlighting the regulatory challenges farmers face.
- Cheerful Charlie – Another key character, known for his cheerful disposition and can-do attitude, he helps Clarkson with various projects around the farm.
Impact of Clarkson’s Farm
“Clarkson’s Farm” has made a significant impact on the farming community and has enhanced the general public’s understanding of agriculture. The series has greatly increased awareness of the complexities and challenges inherent in modern farming by following Jeremy Clarkson’s journey as he tackles the realities of agricultural work.
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It highlights various aspects of farming such as the impact of weather, the importance of sustainable practices, the intricacies of animal husbandry, and the myriad bureaucratic hurdles that farmers regularly encounter.
The show has also served an educational purpose, engaging viewers with its humorous and light-hearted approach, and has made the agricultural industry easier to understand for many, particularly urban dwellers. This has stimulated discussion about agriculture’s critical role in both the economy and society.
By depicting the day-to-day operations of Diddly Squat Farm and its farm shop, Clarkson has brought to light the importance of supporting local farms and produce, encouraging viewers to think more about the origins of their food and the benefits of supporting local markets.
Tourism
The popularity of “Clarkson’s Farm” has boosted tourism and benefitted the local economy in the Cotswolds, with fans visiting the area and Diddly Squat Farm itself. This influx of visitors supports other local businesses and bolsters the rural economy.
The series has also helped to shift some negative perceptions about farming and farmers, presenting the genuine challenges and hard work involved in the industry, thus fostering greater respect and appreciation for those within it.
Interestingly, the show has inspired some viewers to consider farming as a viable career or lifestyle choice, making the prospect of entering the farming world seem more accessible, even to those without an agricultural background.
Overall, “Clarkson’s Farm” has contributed significantly to promoting a deeper understanding and appreciation of the farming industry, while having a tangible effect on the local area and potentially inspiring a new generation of farmers.
You can watch “Clarkson’s Farm” on Amazon Prime Video. The series is available exclusively on this streaming platform, so you’ll need an active subscription to view it. Amazon Prime Video often offers new subscribers a free trial period, so you can start watching without an immediate cost.
