Matt LeBlanc only took on the presenting gig on ‘Top Gear’ because he was jobless at the time.
The 48-year-old actor – who is best known for playing dumb buffoon Joey Tribbiani in ‘Friends’ for a decade – has admitted he only took on the job on the revamped motoring show because no other offers had cropped up at the time.
Speaking to James Cordon on the ‘Late, Late Show’, he explained: "[My comedy] ‘Episodes’ was coming to an end and I needed a job. So I said: ‘Why not?’ "
And, although the refurbished car programme wasn’t something that was initially on his agenda, he’s already proved a huge hit with viewers and is reportedly in talks with bosses to renew his contract for a second series next year.
An insider said previously: "Matt came across really well, he can drive and certainly knows his motors. Matt is crucial to the success going forward."
However, it’s no wonder producers are keen to do all they can to spruce up the show as the first episode earlier this month opened with its lowest viewing figures in over a decade.
The show, which is also fronted by Chris Evans, pulled in just 4.4. million viewers – 1.4 million less than the last series with ousted host Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May – but peaked to 4.7 million throughout the episode.
Meanwhile, although bosses are keen to sign Matt for the second series, it’s thought his busy work schedule may throw their plan on its head as he’s got a 13-episode run in the US comedy ‘I’m Not Your Friend’.
Matt LeBlanc took Top Gear role for cash
