Chris Evans hasn’t spoken to Matt LeBlanc since he quit ‘Top Gear’ last year.
The 50-year-old radio DJ turned his back on the motoring show, which he co-presented with the actor for one series, less than 12 months into his three-year contract after his hosting style was heavily criticised by fans but, although it was his choice to leave, he hasn’t reached out to the former ‘Friends’ star since his departure.
Matt told The Sun newspaper: "I did not know what was coming until I read that [he had quit the show] in the paper. I haven’t heard from him since — which is his choice."
It was rumoured the pair had locked horns while shooting the series last year, but the 49-year-old hunk is adamant that wasn’t the case and they merely kept a professional relationship because they both had busy schedules away from the screen.
Matt explained: "I saw the stories that we weren’t getting along and there was a row between us, but we were fine. I liked Chris Evans. I think my schedule is tough, but he was doing a radio show every morning, and that was a lot to deal with."
And the silver fox thinks Chris’ tiresome schedule contributed to his early exit.
He added: "Maybe that [his schedule] was what it was — I honestly don’t know."
Bosses signed Matt up to the show alongside Chris – who took over from sacked host Jeremy Clarkson – last year as they thought his fame would boost viewing figures.
However, the series’ success didn’t replicate the expectations and every episode was slated online by viewers, who found Chris’ presenting style "awkward".
Despite the negative reviews, bosses decided to make Matt the show’s main host for the forthcoming series, with a helping hand from Chris Harris and Rory Reid.
Patrick Holland, editor at BBC Two, said recently: "I am thrilled that Matt LeBlanc is returning to ‘Top Gear’. He’s a huge talent whose love of cars is infectious."
‘Top Gear’ will return to screens on March 5 on BBC Two.
Chris Evans snubbed Matt LeBlanc after Top Gear exit
