Philip Glenister could be set to replace Jeremy Clarkson on ‘Top Gear’.
The 52-year-old actor and motoring fanatic is reportedly being lined up by the BBC to take on the role of lead presenter in a "massive revamp" of the show after Clarkson was sacked for allegedly punching a producer.
An insider said: "Philip is a real man’s man, so we know he will appeal to the viewers who tuned in because they liked Jeremy.
"But we also know he has a lot of credibility because he is a genuine car fanatic, and is clearly very comfortable talking about them."
Glenister became well acquainted with a number of old-school cars while playing DCI Gene Hunt in the BBC’s ‘Life on Mars’ and ‘Ashes to Ashes’ and the broadcaster is said to believe the success of the shows is evidence of his popularity.
The source told The Sun newspaper: "It also helps that he is considered a friend of the BBC.
"’Life on Mars’ and ‘Ashes to Ashes’ were both massive hits for the channel."
The ‘Mad Dogs’ star has previously appeared on ‘Top Gear’s Star in A Reasonably Priced Car segment and also teamed up with one of Clarkson’s former co-hosts Richard Hammond for a Children in Need sketch in 2008.
The insider added: "There are more experienced hosts being considered, but they just think he would be a really good fit for next year’s ‘Top Gear’.
"They are planning a massive revamp, but at the same time they don’t want to reinvent the wheel – it still has to appeal to fans."
Philip Glenister to replace Jeremy Clarkson on Top Gear?
