MotorTrend’s ‘Roadkill’ Ends After 13 Seasons Due to Financial Constraints

MotorTrend has announced the end of its popular web TV show ‘Roadkill’ after 13 successful seasons. The decision comes as the MotorTrend Production Company is reportedly shutting down due to financial constraints. Mike Finnegan, one of the show’s hosts, confirmed the news on Reddit, stating that there will be no new episodes of ‘Roadkill’ filmed after the completion of the 13th season.

The show, which first aired on YouTube in 2012, was known for its unique approach to automotive content. Hosts Mike Finnegan and David Freiburger would often purchase and restore cars that others might consider beyond repair, and then embark on adventurous road trips. Over the years, ‘Roadkill’ featured a wide range of vehicles, including a 1971 Datsun 240Z with a Chevrolet S-10-sourced engine and a 1980 Chevrolet Monte Carlo with a hydraulic suspension system.

The show’s success led to several spin-offs, including a magazine launched in 2016 and an annual drag-racing festival called Roadkill Nights, sponsored by Dodge. ‘Roadkill’ also transitioned from YouTube to MotorTrend On Demand and later became available on Discovery+ after Discovery acquired MotorTrend in 2017.

The shutdown of MotorTrend Productions is attributed to significant financial difficulties, with Discovery/WB facing approximately $41 billion in debt. This financial strain has led to the dissolution of the production company, affecting not only ‘Roadkill’ but potentially other MotorTrend shows as well.

While there is no word yet on what the future holds for hosts Mike Finnegan and David Freiburger, both have active YouTube channels and are expected to continue their automotive endeavors. The fate of events like Roadkill Nights, Hot Rod Drag Week, and Hot Rod Power Tour, which are also owned by Discovery, remains uncertain.