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)
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