Rutledge Wood

Rutledge Wood was born on April 22, 1980, in Birmingham, Alabama, and is a 2002 graduate of the University of Georgia. His career in media began to take shape through his involvement in auto racing. Early in his career, Wood served as a host for *NASCAR Trackside* until 2013, and in 2007, he hosted the *Speed Road Tour Challenge*. These roles established him as a recognizable figure in motorsports broadcasting, where he combined his passion for cars with his on-screen presence.

A significant milestone in Wood’s career was co-hosting History’s *Top Gear* (U.S. TV series) alongside Adam Ferrara and Tanner Foust, which premiered on November 21, 2010. This expanded his reach beyond traditional auto racing audiences and showcased his ability to connect with a broader viewership interested in automotive entertainment. Following his success on *Top Gear*, Wood continued to expand his television portfolio. In May 2015, he hosted *Lost in Transmission*, a show where he explored his hometown in Georgia, focusing on the restoration of classic cars. This series highlighted his hands-on approach and deep appreciation for automotive history.

Wood’s career further diversified with his work on streaming platforms. He became the host for several Netflix shows, including *Hyperdrive*, which launched in August 2019, *Floor Is Lava*, which premiered in June 2020, and *The American Barbecue Showdown*, released in September 2020. These roles demonstrated his versatility as a host across different genres, from high-octane automotive competitions to family-friendly game shows and culinary contests. In May 2023, he began hosting *Hot Wheels: Ultimate Challenge*, an NBC competition series, continuing his engagement with automotive-themed content.