According to reports, new Top Gear host Matt LeBlanc already has the BBC worried, after he recently signed up to star in a new US sitcom. Less than a week after it was announced that he would be joining Chris Evans on the rebooted version of Top Gear, news has emerged that he has also agreed to star in a new comedy called ‘I’m Not Your Friend’.
According to The Sun, BBC bosses are concerned that filming of the sitcom will clash with Top Gear’s schedule, and make co-ordinating his and Chris’ availability a nightmare. It is understood that Matt is currently filming a pilot of the show, but it has been guaranteed a 13-episode run and is already predicted to become a massive hit. This could cause problems for Top Gear and the BBC, as it is not uncommon for sitcoms to take up to 30 weeks a year to film.
“Securing Matt was regarded as a huge coup for ‘Top Gear’ but bosses will be worried about his increased involvement with the new comedy, despite already being aware of his association. He’s hugely keen on the comedy project and is desperate to be involved, so it would mean more time spent in the US when he may be needed for ‘Top Gear’ duties. Comedy is where his heart lies and if this latest show has a chance of recreating the success of ‘Friends’, he’s bound to put it first.” – a source told The Sun.
Speaking about his ‘Top Gear’ role last week, Matt said: “As a car nut and a massive fan of ‘Top Gear’, I’m honoured and excited to be a part of this iconic show’s new chapter. What a thrill!”