[Adrian Thompson]

How can anyone defend him for hitting a guy? Assuming it was true, and it looks like it, he should have been gone the same day. Not allowing his contract to expire, but marched off the premises as would have happened to anyone else in the BBC or any other company for physical violence. Despite (because of) his controversial image, the BBC desperately wanted to keep him. He is the cornerstone to the biggest grossing nonfiction show on the planet and brings in revenue completely beyond the shows cost.

I love TG, I love his non PC ways, but sorry, if he punched someone he has to go. There is no way Top Gear will survive without him. James and Hammond have said they don't want to do the show without him. the BBC may try to replace him or the whole cast, but the show will soon fold. I'm sure he'll take his talents elsewhere and millions will still pirate his new show, but the BBC had to cut him.