Top Gear’s biggest mystery finally exposed as fans learn all about The Stig

The Stig was one of Top Gear’s most iconic and mysterious characters – now the identities of all drivers who played him have been confirmed after much debate among fans

Some say he can communicate with pigeons, and balance 14 spoons on the tip of his nose at a moments’ notice – all we know is, he’s called The Stig. The legendary Top Gear figure made his debut in 2002 – and gained even greater fame through host Jeremy Clarkson’s weird and wonderful introductions of him.

For years, audiences attempted to learn The Stig’s true identity, but the mystery only added to the intrigue as the show continued. Now, it has been revealed The Stig was played by three professional racing drivers, with each sharing their stories throughout the years.

Who was The Stig?

The Stig was developed for the relaunched edition of Top Gear in 2002 by Jeremy Clarkson and producer Andy Wilman.

His primary responsibility was to evaluate vehicles around the programme’s renowned circuit at Dunsfold Aerodrome and establish lap times.

He also assisted in coaching celebrities participating in the “Star in a Reasonably Priced Car” segment.

The running gag was that nobody understood who The Stig truly was. He never uttered a word on camera, maintained his helmet throughout and was consistently presented with Clarkson’s celebrated “Some say” characterisations.

The original Black Stig – Perry McCarthy

The initial Stig was Perry McCarthy, a former Formula One driver who donned a completely black racing suit.

McCarthy portrayed The Stig from 2002 until 2003, featuring in the opening two series before the character was dramatically “killed off” when he purportedly drove a Jaguar off an aircraft carrier. His identity was ultimately uncovered, partly through his autobiography, prompting the programme to introduce a new Stig clad in white.

The White Stig – Ben Collins

The Stig most viewers likely recall was Ben Collins, a professional racing driver who assumed the role in 2003.

For years, fans attempted to determine who lurked beneath the white helmet, with Collins frequently connected to the position.

In 2010, the BBC found itself embroiled in a legal dispute regarding Collins’ autobiography, which disclosed his identity as The Stig.

Collins possessed a motorsport pedigree and had also served as a stunt driver, including on Quantum of Solace, rendering him an ideal candidate for the part.

Was Michael Schumacher The Stig?

In 2009, Top Gear seemingly unveiled The Stig’s identity at last – with seven-time Formula One world champion Michael Schumacher removing the helmet.

However, it was merely a prank.

Schumacher completed a lap in the reasonably priced car before Clarkson essentially confirmed that he wasn’t genuinely The Stig.

Collins remained the individual beneath the white suit during that period.

The final Stig – Phil Keen

Following Collins’ departure from the programme in 2010, another driver stepped in.

The third Stig was Phil Keen, who continued in the role until Top Gear concluded in 2022.

Keen holds the distinction of being the most accomplished driver in British GT history, having secured runner-up in the premier class on three occasions.

After his time on Top Gear, he now races in the European Le Mans Series for JMW Motorsport.

Jeremy Clarkson subsequently confirmed Keen’s identity in 2024, revealing the three principal Stigs were Perry McCarthy, Ben Collins and Phil Keen.