Matt LeBlanc joins BBC’s revamped Top Gear

Former Friends actor Matt LeBlanc has today been revealed as one of the new presenters of Top Gear, joining Chris Evans on the revamped BBC Two motoring show.

LeBlanc is already familiar to Top Gear viewer, having been a two-time guest on the show during the Jeremy Clarkson era when he earned the distinction of becoming the fastest celebrity to date around the Top Gear track in its reasonably priced car.

The actor also presented the recent standalone spin-off Top Gear: The Races, where he led fans through some of the most memorable racing moments from the previous 22 series.

A BBC spokesperson said the new signing “joins production immediately,” adding that additional presenters “will be confirmed shortly.”

Chris Evans said of his new Top Gear presenter: “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.”

Matt LeBlanc commented: “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!”

Alan Tyler, the BBC’s Acting Controller for Entertainment Commissioning, said: “Matt is a class act and a brilliant signing for Top Gear.

“He is a self-confessed car fanatic with a passion for the programme. I’m really looking forward to watching Chris and Matt bring the all new show to our audiences.”

LeBlanc’s signing could help the BBC keep the show’s international audience, most of which is unlikely to be familiar with Evans’ past work.