Presenter James May says ‘some basic manly qualities are under threat’ ahead of the first episode of his new TV show that celebrates manly tinkering and ‘blundering about’
Former Top Gear star James May has pleaded for boring blokes to be saved from dying out.
He also moaned that he hates the phrase ‘man caves’ and dubbed it offensive to fellas. The telly presenter fronts a new show called James May and the Dull Men on Quest. But he said that despite the programme’s title, he thinks chaps should be celebrated for tinkering and “blundering about”.
James, 61, said: “I don’t think it is dull! I’m a bit bored with the idea that men are dull because they like going into their workshops or lofts to make things or paint pictures.
“I’ve argued with the producers and the channel about this – it’s meant ironically. Don’t think we should use it to beat men and say the era of ‘the bloke’ is over.
“Some basic manly qualities are under threat. Many people mistakenly think it’s dull – but we’ll show them!”
James also argued that creating and mending things is good for a guy’s mental health.
He said: “Yes, I’m a bit of a fidgety, twitchy person, even more so as I age.
“I find doing quite focused, meticulous activities – putting things together or mending things – quite calming.”
The Grand Tour favourite added that he thinks men in particular like to tinker – but don’t need to hide in caves or sheds. He said: “It does seem to be predominantly men – but not all men. Jeremy [Clarkson] isn’t interested in this sort of thing.
“But I really hate the expression ‘man caves’, like we dribble harmlessly by ourselves out of the way.
“Sometimes we’re making interesting stuff and making a difference.
“I’d be happy to have some women making things in the show, too.”
Early this year the TV presenter was injured in a bike accident. He was training for a charity bike ride in London when he suffered the accident near Hammersmith Bridge. He fell to the floor and ended up with a “bust wrist” during the nasty accident.
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
