Matt LeBlanc ‘to replace Chris Evans as main Top Gear host’
Matt LeBlanc will replace Chris Evans as the main host on Top Gear, according to reports.
The US actor and car enthusiast looks set to take over from Evans who stepped down from the role after one series.
A source told the Daily Mirror: "Matt was one of the positive aspects of the last series, he is keen to return and we definitely want him back so it will happen, we just need to dot the 'i's' and cross the 't's'.
"We think he will be back filming soon and he is excited about some of the ideas we have lined up."
The publication also reported that LeBlanc is currently negotiating a new deal with show bosses which could see him pick up a £1million pay check.
A spokesperson for the show told Standard Online: "We have no immediate plans to replace Chris and don’t expect any changes to the Top Gear presenting line-up going forward."
The reports come days after the Friends actor revealed he would be open to returning to the motoring show.
Speaking at an event to promote his new show Man With a Plan he said: “I don’t know. I’d like to. There’s nothing officially happening just yet — call the BBC.”
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LeBlanc joined Evans to present Top Gear after James May and Richard Hammond stepped down following the axing of Jeremy Clarkson.
Evans was met with harsh criticism during his stint which saw viewers brand him “too shouty”, bemoan his “lack of chemistry” with LeBlanc and even hit out at his clothing.
In June he announced his departure, telling fans: “Stepping down from Top Gear. Gave it my best shot but sometimes that's not enough. The team are beyond brilliant, I wish them all the best.”
Evans threw his support behind LeBlanc to take over and told the Mail on Sunday: “For me, he is the man. He is the captain Top Gear truly needs going forward, the perfect torso for the rest of TG's limbs."
But other stars have set their sights on the job including US rapper 50 Cent who said he could save the show.
The self-confessed petrol head told the Daily Star: "I would love to work on Top Gear, I could save that show for sure, but it would cost them.”
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