James May defends being an old white man in today's society

In a recent interview, James May, the former host of The Grand Tour, addressed his perspective on being labeled as an 'old white man' amidst discussions on identity and privilege. He highlighted his ability to operate a screw-cutting lathe as a skill that should not be overlooked despite societal dismissiveness towards his demographic. These comments were made in the wake of criticism regarding his social media remarks on Pride celebrations, where he remarked that excessive display of rainbow bunting could be perceived as authoritarian. May's remarks sparked an online debate, resonating with those who feel that traditional masculine attributes are often unfairly criticized or derided in contemporary culture. As part of the discussion, May acknowledged that while white men might be blamed for societal issues, he does not feel the need to apologize for his identity. Additionally, the departure of May, Jeremy Clarkson, and Richard Hammond from Top Gear set the stage for their subsequent collaboration on The Grand Tour for Prime Video, after Clarkson's contract was not renewed due to a controversial incident. This shift marked a significant change in the landscape of automotive entertainment, with the trio aiming to maintain creative control over their projects. May's statements highlight an ongoing cultural conversation about representation, entitlement, and the evolving standards of masculinity in society. They reflect broader issues surrounding the backlash against traditional gender roles and the real or perceived diminishing of white male privilege in contemporary discourse.