Just a few days ago Leftlane reported about a new voice pack and special edition TomTom navigation device that was programmed with Top Gear host Jeremy Clarkson’s voice – but now it seems the BBC has had a change of heart on allowing the sale of the device.
After 54,000 units had already been manufactured – and many of them shipped to retail outlets – the BBC decided to check its own fine print and realized that the product deal created a conflict of interest, according to The Guardian.
The BBC’s own editorial guidelines state that the show’s presenters “must take particular care not to endorse any product or service which could be covered in the programs on which they work.”
For Clarkson fans, this will likely come as a major disappointment as they will now miss out on the Clarkson voice – and satire – that would have made their journeys pass by with additional comedic relief thanks to lines such as, “After 700 yards, assuming this car can make it that far, you have reached your destination, with the aid of 32 satellites and me – well done.”
So what is to be done with the 54,000 navigation units already made? BBC will allow the sale but will donate all proceeds to BBC Children in Need, with no money finding its way into the pockets of host Jeremy Clarkson. TomTom says it will also make an additional charitable donation of its own.
So if you have your heart set on hearing Clarkson treat you with condescension during your travels, you better act fast, or expect to pay a hefty premium over the $269.95 retail price of the unit.
References
1.’Top Gear performs…’ view
2.’TomTom’s Jeremy…’ view
