Richard Hammond is one of the most iconic motoring presenters in the world, best known for co-hosting Top Gear and later The Grand Tour. His charm, humor, daredevil stunts, and on-screen chemistry with Jeremy Clarkson and James May have cemented his place as a global television personality. As of 2025, Richard Hammond’s net worth is estimated at $45 million, built through a long career in broadcasting, book publishing, automotive entertainment, and major streaming deals. Here is a detailed look of Richard Hammond net worth.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Richard Mark Hammond was born on December 19, 1969, in Solihull, England. Growing up in Ripon after his family moved in the 1980s, Hammond attended Ripon Grammar School before joining Harrogate College of Art and Technology.
His media journey began in radio, where he worked for several BBC radio stations, including Radio York, Radio Leeds, and Radio Lancashire. It was during this period that he met motoring journalist Zogg Zieglar, who encouraged him to pursue car reviews on television—advice that would eventually shape his career.
Rise to Fame on Top Gear
Hammond auditioned for Top Gear in 2002 when the show was revamped into the high-energy format that would later become a global phenomenon. He quickly became a fan favorite and earned the nickname “The Hamster” due to his small stature and energetic personality.
Over more than a decade on the show, Hammond:
- Performed daring stunts
- Reviewed supercars and hypercars
- Produced comedic segments with Clarkson and May
- Helped transform Top Gear into one of the world’s most-watched factual entertainment shows
However, his time on the show wasn’t without risk. In 2006, Hammond survived a near-fatal crash while driving a Vampire dragster at 288 mph. He was placed in a coma for two weeks and suffered severe memory loss but eventually made a remarkable recovery.
Hammond remained on Top Gear until 2015, later returning for one final 75-minute special.
The Grand Tour and Massive Salary Boost
In 2016, Hammond, Clarkson, and May signed a mega deal with Amazon Studios to create The Grand Tour, a move that significantly increased the trio’s earnings. Hammond’s annual salary reportedly rose to $7 million, making him one of the highest-paid presenters in motoring entertainment.
Other Television Work
Beyond Top Gear and The Grand Tour, Hammond has hosted and appeared in numerous programs across science, engineering, adventure, and entertainment genres.
His TV credits include:
- Brainiac: Science Abuse
- Richard Hammond’s Engineering Connections
- Total Wipeout
- Richard Hammond’s Invisible Worlds
- Richard Hammond’s Jungle Quest
- Crash Course
- Time Commanders
- Planet Earth Live
- Science of Stupid
He has become known for presenting educational content in a humorous and accessible way, appealing to audiences of all ages.
Personal Life
Richard Hammond married Amanda “Mindy” Etheridge in 2002. The couple has two daughters and lives a relatively private family life despite Hammond’s public profile.
Hammond is an avid animal lover and owns:
- Horses
- Dogs and cats
- Ducks and sheep
- Chickens
- Even a peacock
His passion for rural living has led to a charming countryside lifestyle.
Car Collection
As expected from a motoring enthusiast, Hammond owns an impressive range of cars, especially Porsche models. His collection has included:
- Porsche 911 Carrera S
- Porsche 928
- Porsche 911 GT3
- Dodge Charger R/T (1969)
- Ford Mustang GT 390 (1967)
- Dodge Challenger SRT-8
- BMW 850Ci
- Fiat 500 TwinAir
He also holds a helicopter license and owns a Robinson R44 Raven II, showcasing his love for machines beyond cars.
Real Estate
The Hammond family resides in Herefordshire in a mock castle-style country estate. In addition, they own:
- A London apartment
- A villa in Saint-Tropez
- Bollitree Castle, purchased for around £2 million
Real estate has become one of Hammond’s most notable personal investments.
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