Matt LeBlanc To Join Top Gear Team

Matt LeBlanc has been named as one of the new presenters for the upcoming series of Top Gear on BBC Two. The new series, which will be fronted by Chris Evans, is due to air on the channel in May 2016.

LeBlanc's appointment as co-host marks the first time the show has had a non-British host in its 39-year history. It is understood he joins production of the show immediately. Further Top Gear cast members will be confirmed by BBC in due course.

Commenting on his fellow presenter, Chris Evans said: "Matt's a lifelong 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 added: "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, BBC 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."

Top Gear is an In House Entertainment Production for BBC Television.

www.bbc.co.uk/mediacentre

(JP)