Key Highlights
- Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz appeared on the show to promote their film “Knight and Day.”
- The producers went overboard with scheduling, resulting in a relaxed day for the celebrities.
- Cruise’s motorhome visit was minimal as he spent most of his time chatting with the crew.
- A heavy rain shower interrupted filming, but Cruise managed to secure a top position on the board after the dry laps.
The Top Gear Celebrity Appearances: A Behind-the-Scenes Look
When Hollywood’s biggest stars visit Top Gear, the show’s producers often go all out, setting a meticulously detailed schedule that is rarely followed. This was the case when Cameron Diaz and Tom Cruise appeared on the show to promote their film “Knight and Day,” as Andy Wilman, author of “Mr. Wilman’s Motoring Adventure,” recounts in his book extract.
The Arrival of Hollywood’s A-Listers
With a mission to make the day as smooth as possible for the stars, the producers laid out an elaborate schedule that began with Cruise arriving by helicopter at 12:00 PM. By 12:05 PM, he and Jeremy Clarkson, Wilman’s co-host, were introduced, leading to a series of events that deviated significantly from the planned itinerary.
Cruise’s Relaxed Approach
Cruise’s schedule quickly went off track as he spent minimal time in his motorhome. Instead, he mingled with the crew and office team, making casual conversations. This laid-back approach to filming continued until it was time for him to do laps on the track. Despite a heavy rain shower that interrupted the session, Cruise managed to secure top board position after the dry laps.
Cameron Diaz’s Humorous Interaction
While Cameron Diaz’s arrival brought delightful and humorous moments, Wilman recounted an amusing interaction during her interview about her nose. Diaz playfully broke a myth when she claimed that her broken nose had not affected her appearance, demonstrating the unique chemistry between Hollywood celebrities.
The Premier’s Day Hassles
As the day progressed towards the film premiere in London, Cruise asked if he could do his laps again, showcasing his dedication to the show. However, logistical constraints meant that he had to change in the car rather than at the hotel as originally planned.
A Dangerous Run Through Tierra del Fuego
The book extract also details a harrowing experience from 2014 when Wilman and his team faced an angry mob in Tierra del Fuego, Argentina. Having been accused of placing a provocative number plate on the car during filming, the Top Gear team was forced to evacuate after being told by the local police that they were facing hostile locals. Despite their protests, the three main hosts left for Buenos Aires while the rest of the crew faced the mob’s wrath.
The Gauntlet of Rocks and Stones
With no clear escape route, Wilman’s team had to run a dangerous gauntlet through Tolhuin village. The convoy was lined with locals armed with stones, forcing them to cover their cars with coats and jackets for protection. Despite the fear, they managed to navigate through the village safely, suffering only minor injuries in the process.
The event not only highlighted the risks involved in filming on location but also underscored the importance of planning and quick thinking under pressure. The experience became a memorable part of Top Gear’s history, adding an element of danger that fans would never forget.
