After a tumultuous first series with an all-new, six-host cast, BBC has confirmed that Matt LeBlanc will return to Top Gear for Series 24, which will air on BBC Two in the United Kingdom and other global networks next year. The American actor has agreed to star in two more series in a new deal.
What’s more, Chris Harris and Rory Reid will be promoted to main host status alongside LeBlanc, with Eddie Jordan and Sabine Schmitz making regular appearances on the show as before.
“I am thrilled that Matt LeBlanc is returning to Top Gear. He’s a huge talent whose love of cars is infectious. I can’t wait for the series to return to BBC Two next year,” said BBC Two’s channel editor Patrick Holland.
Director of BBC Studios Mark Lindsey said, “Matt was hugely popular with Top Gear viewers last series with his humour, warmth and obvious passion for cars and for the show, so I couldn’t be more delighted that he’s agreed to come back and do more for us.”
The British motoring TV show didn’t get off to a great start this year, with viewer ratings plummeting sharply amid criticism of its then lead host Chris Evans. Tensions were reportedly rising among the hosts, too, with LeBlanc even going so far as to threaten to leave if Evans stayed. The latter eventually announced he was leaving the show just after the series finale aired on July 4.
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Chris Harris… GREAT!!!!..now that’s more like it
Chris Harris is not fun. Yes he’s a good driver and can give nice comments but as a host he is rather average, and very boring. I’ve always watched his show /CHRIS HARRIS ON CARS (yes its on Astro) but only because for the love of cars. How I missed Jeremy, Richard and James – they are still the best.
Chris Harris..YES..that’s more like it…and what was BBC thinking when they chose Evans?…he is no car nut
Evans not a car nut? You must be looking at the wrong evans then.
Evans was a nut alright, although in a different manner altogether. Maybe BBC forgot that he was just a rich sod who was rich enough that he can afford all those cars he bought. Not that he understands cars…..
No more Chris Evans, welcome Chris Harris.. I have always liked your car reviews… thorbaek