BBC Studios confirmed today that Matt LeBlanc will leave Top Gear later this year.
Top Gear has certainly experienced some twists and turns over the past few years. After Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May departed the show, it was up to the show’s new presenters to keep one of the world’s most popular car shows in the limelight. Among those presenters was Matt LeBlanc, formerly of Friends fame, who joined the team as a co-host in 2016.
Since then, LeBlanc, Rory Reid and Chris Harris have won audiences over, particularly younger viewers. However, BBC Studios recently broke the story that LeBlanc is ready to leave Top Gear behind. He clarified why he’s leaving in a statement:
“My experience on Top Gear has been great fun. I have thoroughly enjoyed working with the whole team. However, the time commitment and extensive travel required to present Top Gear takes me away from my family and friends more than I’m comfortable with. It’s unfortunate, but for these reasons I will not be continuing my involvement with the show.”
No word yet on who will replace LeBlanc on the show, but BBC has plans to bring on a new co-host in 2019. Patrick Holland, BBC Two Controller, said: “The next series of Top Gear promises to be something very special and we have great plans to welcome a new co-host to join the team for 2019 and beyond.”
Who do you think should replace Matt LeBlanc on Top Gear? Let us know what you think in the comments below!
