Jeremy Clarkson has taken a swipe at James Corden’s Gavin & Stacey while promoting his new Clarkson’s Farm book.

In a characteristically cheeky move, Jeremy Clarkson, the outspoken former host of Top Gear and star of Clarkson’s Farm, has thrown a playful jab at James Corden’s new book while promoting the latest instalment in his own literary series. The 65-year-old television personality, who has become a beloved figure in the world of farming and hospitality, used a recent social media video to spotlight his new book, Diddly Squat: The Farmer’s Dog, while subtly poking fun at Corden’s When Gavin Met Stacey and Everything in Between. The lighthearted dig, delivered in Clarkson’s signature irreverent style, has sparked chatter among fans of both celebrities, highlighting their respective ventures in Oxfordshire and beyond.

Clarkson’s Growing Empire in Oxfordshire

At the heart of Clarkson’s recent endeavors is Diddly Squat Farm, a sprawling 1,000-acre property in Oxfordshire that serves as the backdrop for his wildly popular Prime Video series, Clarkson’s Farm. The show, which chronicles Clarkson’s often chaotic attempts to run a working farm, has won over audiences with its blend of humor, heart, and honest depictions of rural life. The farm itself has become something of a cultural phenomenon, drawing visitors to its on-site shop and offering a glimpse into the challenges of modern agriculture.

In addition to his farming exploits, Clarkson expanded his portfolio last year by purchasing a local pub, formerly known as The Windmill, for a reported £1,000,000. Rechristened The Farmer’s Dog, the pub has become a new focal point for Clarkson’s business ventures and a key subject of his latest book. The acquisition marked another chapter in Clarkson’s journey from motoring journalist to countryside entrepreneur, with the pub serving as a natural extension of the Diddly Squat brand.

Promoting Diddly Squat: The Farmer’s Dog

Clarkson’s promotional efforts for Diddly Squat: The Farmer’s Dog, the fifth book in his Clarkson’s Farm series, have been anything but subtle. In a recent Instagram video, the presenter stood in front of a bookstore’s display, proudly holding up his new release. With his trademark wit, he addressed the camera, saying, “Look at this, it’s my new book, The Farmer’s Dog. It’s about a year on the farm and what it was like to open a pub, and I thought I’d read you an excerpt from it, give you a flavour.”

He then proceeded to share a humorous snippet from the book: “We can’t find a reindeer, so I’m having to use a normal deer with antlers taped to its head. Exciting stuff, The Farmer’s Dog.” The excerpt, delivered with Clarkson’s dry humor, encapsulates the quirky and chaotic spirit of his farming and pub-running adventures. The book promises to delve into the highs and lows of managing Diddly Squat Farm while navigating the challenges of launching a new hospitality venture in rural England.

The Swipe at James Corden

Never one to shy away from a bit of banter, Clarkson couldn’t resist taking a playful swipe at fellow celebrity James Corden. In the same video, he pointed to a copy of Corden’s book, When Gavin Met Stacey and Everything in Between, displayed nearby. With a sly grin, he quipped, “Better than that.” The remark, though lighthearted, was a classic Clarkson move—blunt, cheeky, and sure to stir conversation.

Corden’s book, co-authored with Ruth Jones, celebrates the beloved British sitcom Gavin & Stacey, which the pair created and starred in. The show, which follows the long-distance romance of a couple from Essex and Wales, has become a cultural touchstone in the UK, with its recent Christmas special drawing millions of viewers. The book offers fans a behind-the-scenes look at the series, complete with anecdotes, scripts, and reflections on its enduring popularity.

While Clarkson’s jab was clearly meant in jest, it underscores the competitive spirit between the two high-profile figures, both of whom have ties to Oxfordshire. Corden, known for his work as a comedian, actor, and former host of The Late Late Show, has been making headlines of his own in the region, albeit for different reasons.

James Corden’s Oxfordshire Controversy

While Clarkson has been busy with his farm and pub, Corden has been navigating a different kind of challenge in Oxfordshire. In April 2024, the 47-year-old entertainer received permission to demolish a 1960s house he had purchased near Henley, with plans to replace it with a more modern structure. However, the decision was not without controversy. Both South Oxfordshire District Council and English Heritage raised objections to the demolition, citing concerns about the loss of a historically significant property. After a year-long wait, Corden was finally granted approval, but the process drew significant attention and sparked debate among local residents and heritage advocates.

Corden’s connection to Oxfordshire, much like Clarkson’s, has placed him in the spotlight as a public figure investing in the region. However, while Clarkson’s ventures have largely been embraced as part of his Clarkson’s Farm narrative, Corden’s property plans have faced scrutiny, highlighting the differing public perceptions of the two stars.

A Tale of Two Celebrities

The contrast between Clarkson and Corden’s projects couldn’t be starker. Clarkson’s Diddly Squat: The Farmer’s Dog is a celebration of his hands-on, often chaotic approach to farming and hospitality, infused with his larger-than-life personality. The book, like the Clarkson’s Farm series, is expected to resonate with fans who appreciate his unfiltered take on rural life and his willingness to embrace the absurdities of his endeavors.