BBC Top Gear has a New Lead; Chris Evans Replaces Jeremy Clarkson
Chris Evans (TV personality, not the Avengers actor) will be Jeremy Clarkson’s replacement for Top Gear.
advertisement
The BBC says its hit automotive TV show “Top Gear” will return to the airwaves with a new host replacing scandal-tainted Jeremy Clarkson.
The broadcaster says radio and TV personality Chris Evans has signed a three-year deal to lead a new lineup for the show, which has won a huge following with its mix of car tips, driving stunts and jokey banter.
I’m thrilled, Top Gear is my favourite programme of all time. Created by a host of brilliant minds who love cars and understand how to make the massively complicated come across as fun, devil-may-care and effortless. When in fact, of course, it’s anything but and that’s the genius of Top Gear’s global success.
I promise I will do everything I possibly can to respect what has gone on before and take the show forward.
-Chris Evans to BBC.
Clarkson was fired in March after he punched a producer during an off-set altercation. The show’s two other hosts also left.
The incident threatened the future of one of BBC’s most popular shows — and biggest international earners. Clarkson’s brash, blokey persona was a large part of “Top Gear’s” appeal to fans.
(With AP inputs)
(At The Quint, we question everything. Play an active role in shaping our journalism by becoming a member today.)