Matt LeBlanc is to host the next series of ‘Top Gear’ on his own.
The former ‘Friends’ star has spent the past two months co-presenting the revamped motoring show alongside radio presenter Chris Evans, who has since quit the programme, but has now been offered the chance to front it alone next year.
A source told The Sun newspaper: "Matt is going to get the big job on his own. There are already active negotiations and he’s almost certain to sign now that he doesn’t have to work with Chris. Chris won’t be replaced but Matt will become the star presenter surrounded by the existing team."
Chris, who had signed a three-year deal back in December to host the motoring programme, sensationally quit the car show earlier this week after the final episode, which aired on Sunday (03.07.16), pulled in its lowest viewing figures since 2002.
The insider explained: "Chris is gone – everyone here [at ‘Top Gear’] is celebrating. It’s [the first series] been a disaster."
The 50-year-old star decided to throw the towel in just five months into his contract after his hosting skills were heavy scrutinised by viewers week-in week-out since his debut.
Taking to his Twitter account on Monday (04.07.16), he tweeted: "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. (sic)"
Despite walking away from the car show, Chris is determined to remain on good terms with the BBC and has assured fans he’ll continue to work with the channel on various other projects.
He added: "Full steam ahead then with Radio 2, CarFest, Children In Need, 500 Words and whatever else we can dream up in the future. (sic)"
Matt LeBlanc to host Top Gear alone
