Matt LeBlanc has been announced as Chris Evans’ co-host for the upcoming new series of Top Gear.
Evans and Friends star LeBlanc have replaced Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May as the new presenters for the BBC car show, in a surprising move that has left many fans of the series scratching their heads. While LeBlanc previously appeared on Top Gear‘s ‘Star in a Reasonably Priced Car’ segment, setting an unbeaten lap time in the process, LeBlanc’s name had never appeared among the list of individuals linked to taking over hosting duties alongside Evans.
But now the BBC has made the actor’s appointment official, with LeBlanc releasing a statement, saying: “As a car nut and a massive fan of Top Gear, I’m honoured and excited to be a part of this iconic show’s new chapter. What a thrill!”
Evans added: “Matt’s a lifelong fellow petrolhead and I’m thrilled he’s joining Top Gear. Acting out our craziest car notions on screen is a dream job and I know we’ll both be debating some epic road trip ideas.
“We can’t wait to share what we’ve been up to on screen later this year.”
LeBlanc did dabble in presenting after hosting the standalone spin-off Top Gear: The Races, though this will be his first time taking the helm of the main series. The BBC has stated that it will post more casting news for the show soon.
