Andrew “Freddie” Flintoff, has settled with the BBC following his serious accident while filming an episode for Top Gear in 2022.
Details of the settlement emerged from UK publication, The Sun, indicating that Flintoff would receive £9 million, approximately $17.3 million AUD, as compensation. The amount accounts for the two years of potential earnings the cricketer lost due to his injuries.
Importantly, the payment won’t be sourced from the licence fee. Instead, it will be facilitated by BBC Studios, the commercial entity of the broadcaster.
Flintoff’s legal representation has provided an update on his condition, stating that the sportsman is on a recovery journey from injuries that are “life-alteringly significant.”
The incident, which took place on December 13, 2022, occurred at Top Gear’s Dunsfold Park Aerodrome test track in Surrey. Immediate medical attention was provided at the location before Flintoff was hospitalised for more comprehensive care.
A statement from BBC Studios conveyed their commitment to Flintoff’s wellbeing:
“BBC Studios has reached an agreement with Freddie that we believe supports his continued rehabilitation, return to work and future plans.”
The company expressed its heartfelt apologies and has vowed to support Flintoff during his recovery phase.
Earlier in March, the BBC had apologised to Flintoff. This was coincidentally the same time they announced a health and safety assessment of Top Gear. An external agency is anticipated to manage this review, and its findings are yet to be made public.
Separately, BBC Studios initiated its own probe into the accident. The Sun disclosed that Flintoff gave his account of the incident on two separate occasions during the broadcaster’s investigation.
It is understood several members of the Top Gear production team have been receiving trauma counselling after witnessing the crash.
Addressing the incident, a representative from the Health and Safety Executive confirmed in March that the national body overseeing workplace safety concluded its preliminary investigations, deciding that no further probe was necessary.
Flintoff was seen publicly for the first time post-accident. This was during a training session with England cricket players in Cardiff. Observably, scars marred his face, with noticeable tape fixed to his nose.
Since joining the show in 2019, Flintoff had developed a reputation for performing daring stunts.
Production of Top Gear was put on hold after the incident and the BBC is yet to be confirm if the show will ever return. It is understood the bulk of the crew have now moved on to other projects.
Since the departure of its original hosts Jeremy Clarkson, James May, and Richard Hammond, Top Gear had struggled with ratings.
However, the inclusion of Flintoff, along with co-hosts Chris Harris and Paddy McGuinness, revitalised the show’s viewership.
SOURCE: SMH
