
John Watson
Acting
Biography
John Watson, born on May 4, 1946, in Belfast, Northern Ireland, is a former Formula One driver known for his skill, consistency, and remarkable comeback drives. Competing in F1 from 1973 to 1985, he achieved five Grand Prix victories and numerous podium finishes, racing for teams such as McLaren, Brabham, and Penske. Watson is particularly remembered for his 1983 win at the United States Grand Prix West, where he came from 22nd on the grid to take victory, showcasing his exceptional talent. After retiring from racing, he became a respected commentator and analyst, valued for his insights and deep understanding of motorsport.
Born: May 4, 1946
Place of Birth: Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK
Known For

Ayrton: Retratos e Memórias
A look more intimate, human and minimalist - and consequently less sporty and statistical - for the character Ayrton Senna da Silva (1960 to 1994). A chronology of events and remarkable episodes of the career and personal life of the sportsman, from the testimony of more than 50 interviewed, among pilots, former pilots, Formula 1 professionals, journalists, friends and people who were close to Senna.

Ayrton Senna do Brasil
Made for a TV documentary on the life and career of Ayrton Senna on the 20th anniversary of his death.

Crash and Burn
Crash and Burn chronicles the thrilling and turbulent career of Irish racing driver Tommy Byrne, who rose from a rough, working-class background to the cusp of Formula 1 in the 1980s. Directed by Seán Ó Cualáin, the film explores Byrne's undeniable talent and rebellious personality, which set him apart on the track but also clashed with the conservative and elite world of Formula 1. Byrne’s story is filled with highs and lows, from his dominance in lower racing categories to his brief, rocky stint in Formula 1 and subsequent struggles. The documentary combines interviews, archival footage, and personal insights to portray the complexities of Byrne’s character and his “what could have been” legacy in motorsport.

Mosley: It's Complicated
The life and career of controversial F1 and political figure, Max Mosley.

Hunt vs Lauda: F1's Greatest Racing Rivals
James Hunt has never been equalled. Could swashbuckling Hunt catch the scientific Lauda? Could Niki overcome an appalling crash to come back from the dead and fight James all the way to the last race of the season? This powerful story captures the heart of the 1970s - told through unseen footage and exclusive interviews with the people who were really there - the team managers, families, journalists and friends who were in the front row of the season that changed Formula 1 forever.

Superswede: A film about Ronnie Peterson
Ronnie Peterson nicknamed “Superswede” was the fastest formula 1-driver in the 70s who never became a world champion.

Race to Perfection
With unseen archive footage and interviews with the sport's greatest names, this Sky original docuseries celebrates the incredible 70-year history of Formula 1.

1
Set in the golden era of Grand Prix Racing '1' tells the story of a generation of charismatic drivers who raced on the edge, risking their lives during Formula 1's deadliest period, and the men who stood up and changed the sport forever.

Formula 1: The Official End Of Season Review Of The 1982 FIA Formula One World Championship
The official FOCA end-of-season video review, featuring comprehensive highlights of all 16 rounds of the 1982 FIA Formula One World Championship. And what a dramatic season it proved to be, with team changes, driver unrest and technical challenges setting the scene for a most unpredictable outcome. Niki Lauda (McLaren) made his comeback, Keke Rosberg replaced Alan Jones for Williams, Riccardo Patrese drove for Brabham alongside Nelson Piquet and Eddie Cheever joined Jacques Lafitte at Talbot-Ligier. Enjoy 90 action-packed minutes of highlights from this extraordinary season, with a sharply observed and highly entertaining commentary by Clive James at his brilliant best.

1981 FIA Formula One World Championship Season Review
This fascinating record of one season of Grand Prix racing is the first ever FOCA review programme and sets the high standard for which these programmes have since been renowned. From the first green light at West Long Beach the season is charged with controversy. The aerodynamic "skirts" have gone and new hydraulic devices are in place. Carbon fibre bodies appear as the F1 cars get re-invented during the winter months.
Filmography
as Self
as Self
as Self
as Self
as Self
as Self
as Self - F1 Driver, 1973-1985 (voice)
as Commentator