31 May 2018

'What a ride!' Matt LeBlanc to leave Top Gear after next season - BBC

The BBC says former "Friends" star Matt LeBlanc will leave the popular British auto show "Top Gear" after the upcoming season.

In a statement Thursday, LeBlanc said the program was "great fun," but the time and travel commitment "takes me away from my family and friends more than I'm comfortable with."

LeBlanc's fourth and final season as host is due for broadcast later this year.

A mix of humor, stunts and automotive advice, "Top Gear" became a global hit under longtime presenters Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May.

They left in 2015 after Clarkson was fired for punching a producer and now host Amazon's rival show, "The Grand Tour."

LeBlanc joined in 2016 as co-host with British presenter Chris Evans, who left after one season of lackluster ratings and lukewarm reviews.

Co-presenters Chris Harris and Rory Reid wished LeBlanc well via Twitter:

Had the best time working with @matt_leblanc. Sad it had to stop, but I totally understand his reasons for doing so. Best of luck big dog!
— chris harris (@harrismonkey) May 31, 2018

Thanks for the laughs @Matt_LeBlanc. What a ride! Good luck with everything you do in future. ????
— Rory Reid (@MrRoryReid) May 31, 2018

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred

Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.

Join News24 today

description

username

Show Comments ()