Chris Reid: From Tech Journalism to Automotive Broadcasting
Chris Reid has carved a unique niche for himself as a versatile communicator, blending a deep knowledge of technology with a passion for automotive excellence. From his early days as a senior editor in the tech world to becoming a household name on global television, Reid's career is defined by an ability to make complex specifications engaging and accessible to a wide audience.
Key Facts
- Top Gear Breakthrough: Selected from over 15,000 applicants via a 30-second audition tape.
- Diverse Media Background: Experience spanning CNET, BBC, Sky, and The Telegraph.
- Digital Leadership: Served as Director of YouTube content for Auto Trader.
- Electric Vehicle Focus: Host of Fifth Gear Recharged, focusing on hybrid and electric cars.
- Editorial Expertise: Former editor-in-chief of Recombu and senior editor at CNET.com.
Journalism and Digital Media Roots
Before becoming a television personality, Reid established himself as a respected voice in technology and consumer electronics. He served as a senior editor for CNET.com and worked with Personal Computer World magazine. His leadership skills were further highlighted during his tenure as editor-in-chief for Recombu, a comparison website specializing in broadband, television, mobile phones, and cars—a role he continues to support as a brand ambassador.
Reid's writing and editorial reach extend to some of the world's most prestigious outlets. He is a contributing editor for Top Gear magazine and has provided content for the BBC Online, Bloomberg, CBS, Sky, and The Telegraph.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Television and Radio Presence
Reid's transition to the screen began with a focus on gadgets and technology. In 2012, he presented Sky's Gadget Geeks and served as a technology expert for BBC Radio 5's Saturday Edition. His versatility eventually led him to more general entertainment and automotive programming, including the ITV4 show Speed Freaks and regular appearances on the BBC's The One Show.
The Top Gear Era
On February 11, 2016, Chris Evans announced that Reid would join the presenting team of Top Gear. Reid's entry into the show was a remarkable feat; he was the only person chosen from an open audition pool of more than 15,000 applicants. Chris Evans praised Reid's storytelling ability and his rare combination of being "knowledgeable, funny, cool and warm."
While he initially held a supporting role, Reid later became one of the three main hosts alongside Matt LeBlanc and Chris Harris for three series following Evans' resignation. Despite the immense public scrutiny, Reid's "infectious schoolboy enthusiasm" earned him high praise, with The Irish Times calling him the best find for the show since the Clarkson era.
Expanding the brand, Reid also co-presented the sister show Extra Gear with Chris Harris for its first series, later joined by comedian George Lewis in the second series.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Specialized Automotive Projects
In 2021, Reid expanded his automotive portfolio by hosting Fifth Gear Recharged on Discovery+ and Quest. Alongside Vicki Butler-Henderson, Jason Plato, and Karun Chandhok, Reid focuses this iteration of the long-running series specifically on hybrid and electric drive vehicles.
Digital Strategy and YouTube
Recognizing the shift toward video content, Reid joined Auto Trader in December 2019 as the Director of YouTube content. In this capacity, he fronts car reviews, drag races, and buyer's guides, leveraging the platform to help consumers find their ideal vehicles.
His digital footprint also includes launching CNET's Car Tech channel and presenting the Fast, Furious & Funny YouTube channel. He is perhaps best remembered in the digital space for a 2015 spoken word poetry review of a Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II for Recombu, which received widespread acclaim and a shout-out from Rolls-Royce themselves.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Career Summary Table
| Organization/Show | Role | Primary Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Top Gear / Extra Gear | Presenter | Automotive Entertainment |
| Auto Trader | Director of YouTube Content | Car Reviews & Buyer Guides |
| Fifth Gear Recharged | Host | Electric & Hybrid Vehicles |
| CNET / Recombu | Senior Editor / Editor-in-Chief | Tech & Product Comparison |
| BBC / Sky / ITV4 | Contributor / Presenter | Technology & Gadgets |
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Chris Reid get the job on Top Gear?
Reid was selected through an open audition process. He submitted a 30-second audition tape and was the only individual chosen from over 15,000 applicants.
What is Fifth Gear Recharged?
It is a continuation of the original Fifth Gear series, airing on Discovery+ and Quest, but it focuses exclusively on electric and hybrid drive vehicles.
What was Chris Reid's role at Auto Trader?
Reid joined Auto Trader in December 2019 as the Director of YouTube content, where he presents car reviews, guides, and drag races.
Which tech publications has Chris Reid worked for?
He has served as a senior editor for CNET.com, worked for Personal Computer World magazine, and was the editor-in-chief of the review site Recombu.
Has Chris Reid worked with any luxury car brands?
Yes, he notably performed a spoken word poetry review of a Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II, which was recognized and tweeted by Rolls-Royce.