For twenty years, “Top Gear” has captivated car enthusiasts with its exhilarating displays of automotive prowess, and at the heart of this excitement lies the enigmatic Stig.
This elusive Tame Racing Driver consistently amazed audiences with jaw-dropping lap times across a range of vehicles, from the lightning-fast Koenigsegg CCX and the sporty Ford Focus RS to the awe-inspiring grace of a Formula One car.
The Evolution of the Stig
What many fans may not realize is that the Stig’s identity has transformed throughout the show’s beloved years.
Clad in his iconic white racing suit, this character was brought to life by three talented drivers, maintaining an air of mystery that kept viewers guessing.
The journey began with the Black Stig in the early episodes, from 2002 to 2003, portrayed by none other than Perry McCarthy, a distinguished British racing driver with experience at the illustrious 24 Hours of Le Mans.
McCarthy personified the allure of the Black Stig for two unforgettable seasons until a British tabloid exposed his identity, resulting in a dramatic (yet entertaining) departure from the show.
Following this revelation, Ben Collins stepped into the role of the White Stig, delighting fans for an impressive seven years, from 2003 to 2010.
In a particularly memorable moment, the show teased a grand reveal of the Stig’s true identity, leading fans to believe that it was the legendary seven-time Formula One champion, Michael Schumacher.
The Stig’s Identity Revealed
Yet, despite the thrill of this revelation, Schumacher never fully embodied the Tame Racing Driver’s persona.
Following his iconic lap, spirited host Jeremy Clarkson questioned whether Schumacher really encapsulated what it meant to be the Stig.
The true identity of the Stig wasn’t secret for long; Collins eventually decided to share his journey in a book chronicling his racing experiences.
This decision, however, meant that his chapter with “Top Gear” was closed.
After Collins, a new White Stig emerged, and this latest driver maintained his anonymity for over a decade, further enriching the Stig’s legend.
In an exciting twist, Clarkson recently revealed the names of the drivers who took on the Stig’s mantle during a Q&A session at his pub in Britain.
He confirmed that McCarthy was indeed the original Black Stig, followed by Collins, with Phil Keen stepping in afterward.
Although “Top Gear” may not currently be airing, the last man to don that iconic white suit was Keen himself.
Celebrating the Stig
Keen’s own racing career is impressive, competing in high-profile series like the British GT and the European Le Mans series.
He clinched the British GT Championship title in 2009 and boasts an impressive record of 24 race victories, underscoring his exceptional skills behind the wheel.
As we reflect on the legacy that has brought joy and thrills to fans worldwide, it’s clear that the Stig’s persona has flourished through the talents of Perry McCarthy, Ben Collins, and Phil Keen.
While Michael Schumacher made a memorable guest appearance, the true essence of the Stig remains with a select group of standout racing drivers.
Let’s celebrate the thrilling saga of this legendary character in the motorsport world!