Vinnie Jones has publicly addressed what he describes as "upsetting" comparisons between his Discovery+ television series, Vinnie Jones In The Country, and Jeremy Clarkson's highly popular farming programme, Clarkson's Farm. In a recent interview with Radio Times, the actor and former footballer voiced his displeasure at the frequent pitting of the two shows against each other, despite both exploring rural themes.
Distinct Differences Between Programmes
While acknowledging that Jeremy Clarkson has "done a fantastic job raising awareness for farmers" through his Amazon Prime Video series, Jones was keen to stress the fundamental differences between their respective programmes. "Ours is a different little show," he explained. "It's a show without an agenda, and it's not a farm show – it's an in-the-country show."
Jones emphasised that his series, now in its third season, focuses more broadly on country living rather than the specific agricultural challenges and business aspects that form the core of Clarkson's Farm. This distinction appears crucial to Jones, who feels the comparison overlooks the unique nature and purpose of his own production.
Personal Transformation and Connection to Nature
The interview also provided Jones with an opportunity to address his public persona, acknowledging that he had been perceived as a "lunatic" in the past. "A lot of that I brought on myself with the drinking," he confessed candidly, before adding: "But I'm 12 years sober this April, and I wanted to show people what I actually do in my spare time."
Jones elaborated on his deep, personal connection to the natural world, a passion he inherited from his father, whom he described as "always a passionate country man." To illustrate this connection, he recounted: "Yesterday, I sat for six hours just to see a kingfisher. I'm not a south London gangster, never have been."
He further asserted his expertise in British nature, stating confidently: "If I were on Mastermind, my specialist subject would be British nature – not many people would beat me."
Career Context and Upcoming Projects
Known for his breakthrough role in Guy Ritchie's 1998 debut film Lock, Stock And Two Smoking Barrels, Jones is set to appear in the director's new action thriller, Viva la Madness, later this year. Beyond his acting career, Jones enjoyed considerable success in professional football, playing more than 500 games at the top level for teams including Chelsea, Queens Park Rangers and Leeds United.
He was famously part of Wimbledon's "Crazy Gang" team that won the 1987 FA Cup and represented Wales nine times at international level, adding further dimensions to his public profile beyond his television work.
Clarkson's Farm Success Story
Clarkson's Farm launched in 2021 and has since become one of the most significant successes of its host's career. Clarkson purchased Diddly Squat Farm in 2008 as an investment but began actively running it in 2019. The series has documented the highs and lows of his farming journey since 2021, becoming one of Prime Video's most popular television shows.
In July 2024, Clarkson expanded his business interests by taking over The Windmill in Asthall, a traditional country pub situated on five acres of countryside near Burford, further extending his presence in rural enterprises beyond his farming activities.
The comparison between the two programmes appears to stem from their shared rural settings and celebrity presenters, but Jones's comments highlight significant differences in focus, tone, and intention that he believes warrant clearer distinction in public discussion.
