The automotive entertainment landscape experienced another major shift as MotorTrend’s popular online show, Roadkill, announced its conclusion after a successful 13-year run. Co-host Mike Finnegan revealed the news on Reddit, citing the closure of MotorTrend Productions as the reason behind the show’s end, following the completion of filming for season 13.
Roadkill, which debuted on YouTube in 2012, featured Finnegan and David Freiburger engaging in hot rodding adventures, including buying and customizing project cars, embarking on road trips across the United States, participating in drag races, and offering viewers a glimpse into the country’s hot rod culture. The show gained a dedicated following during the rise of YouTube as a prominent platform for content creators.
The conclusion of Roadkill adds to a series of setbacks for car show enthusiasts, with UK’s Top Gear facing an indefinite hiatus and The Grand Tour hosts retiring. The online media sector has also witnessed changes, with renowned presenters departing Donut Media and Hoonigan post-acquisition by new owners.
In a memorable collaboration, Australian YouTube channel Mighty Car Mods journeyed to Los Angeles to challenge Roadkill by constructing a Subaru WRX ute to compete against the V8-powered 1968 Chevrolet Bel Air featured on the show. Mighty Car Mods expressed disappointment over Roadkill’s end, emphasizing the show’s significance in the early days of YouTube when quality automotive content was limited to a few key players like Mighty Car Mods, Top Gear, and Roadkill.
While the future of Roadkill and the MotorTrend channel appears uncertain, both Finnegan and Freiburger maintain individual YouTube channels, indicating that audiences may still enjoy content from the beloved hosts. Interestingly, amidst the conclusion of several automotive shows, the film industry is experiencing a surge in car-related productions, with projects such as reboots of classics like Bullitt and Days of Thunder, alongside new films centered on Initial D and Matchbox, as well as Brad Pitt’s upcoming F1 movie currently in post-production.
The end of Roadkill marks a significant moment in the world of car entertainment, leaving fans reminiscing about the show’s unique blend of automotive enthusiasm and camaraderie between hosts Finnegan and Freiburger. As the automotive media landscape continues to evolve, the legacy of Roadkill and its impact on car enthusiasts worldwide will undoubtedly endure, serving as a testament to the enduring appeal of quality automotive content in the digital age.
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