Richard Hammond, a popular English television presenter, journalist, and writer, is best known for co-hosting the hit car show Top Gear alongside Jeremy Clarkson and James May.
With a net worth of approximately $45 million, Hammond has had a successful career in television and other ventures.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Richard Mark Hammond was born on December 19, 1969, in Solihull, Warwickshire, England. He later moved to Ripon, where he attended Ripon Grammar School and Harrogate College of Art and Technology.
After his studies, Hammond started his career in radio, working at several BBC stations. He gained recognition while presenting on BBC Radio and eventually met motoring journalist Zogg Zieglar, who encouraged him to pursue television motoring journalism.
Top Gear Career
Hammond’s career skyrocketed after he joined Top Gear in 2002. He quickly became a fan favorite, earning the nickname “The Hamster” due to his smaller stature compared to his co-hosts.
During his time on Top Gear, Hammond became an integral part of the trio that transformed the show into an international success. In 2006, he survived a terrifying crash while filming a segment in a dragster, which left him in a coma for two weeks.
Hammond continued with Top Gear until 2015, before returning briefly for a special in 2015. His salary at Top Gear and his popularity with audiences made him a highly paid figure in the television industry.
Other Television Work
Beyond Top Gear, Richard Hammond has been involved in a variety of television projects. He has hosted shows like Brainiac: Science Abuse, Richard Hammond’s Crash Course, Total Wipeout, and The Grand Tour, the latter of which he co-hosts with Clarkson and May after moving to Amazon Studios. His salary for The Grand Tour is reported to be $7 million annually.
Personal Life
Richard has been married to Amanda “Mindy” Hammond since 2002, and the couple has two daughters. Hammond is also known for his love of animals and owns a variety of pets, including horses, dogs, cats, and a peacock.
He lives in Herefordshire in a mock castle, and also owns a London apartment and a villa in Saint-Tropez.
Car Collection and Other Assets
Hammond is an avid car enthusiast, particularly fond of Porsche vehicles. He has owned several models of the Porsche 911, a Pagani Zonda, and American muscle cars like a 1969 Dodge Charger and a 1967 Ford Mustang GT 390.
In addition to his love for cars, Hammond earned his helicopter license in 2012 and owns a Robinson R44 Raven II helicopter.
Residences
The Hammond family resides in a mock castle in Herefordshire, which reportedly cost them £2 million. They also maintain an apartment in London and a villa in Saint-Tropez.
