Paddy McGuinness & Freddie Flintoff Join Chris Harris As New ‘Top Gear’ Line-Up
It’s all change again over on ‘Top Gear‘, as Paddy McGuinness & Freddie Flintoff are announced as the new presenters of the BBC’s flagship motoring show, alongside existing host, Chris Harris.
Back in May, Matt LeBlanc announced he would be leaving the show following the upcoming 26th Season, so the hunt was on to find a replacement… And the BBC found two. “This is a thrilling manoeuvre from the Top Gear team and I’m relishing what this trio will deliver,” commented Patrick Holland, Controller of BBC Two. “Both Paddy and Freddie love their cars but more than that, they’ll bring a new energy and competitive spirit to Top Gear. Chris Harris might have the greater car skills, but when it comes to the infamous Top Gear challenges, he’s going to have to bring his A-game to have the beating of these two.”
You may notice, Rory Reid is now missing from the main show line-up, but he isn’t gone entirely. Reid will stay on as the presenter of companion show ‘Extra Gear’, and along with Sabine Schmitz, will act as an additional host on the main show as needed.
“Getting the Top Gear gig is a real honour and I’m thrilled the BBC have given me this opportunity,” comments McGuinness. “To be hosting a show I’ve watched and loved from being a small boy is beyond exciting. Top Gear fans worldwide are a passionate bunch and I consider myself one of them. Now let’s start up this Great British machine and see what it can do!”
“It’s not often you have the chance to do both of your dream jobs, but I’m now lucky enough to say I will have,” adds Flintoff. “I’ve always been passionate about cars and I’m so excited to be joining the Top Gear team.”
‘Top Gear‘ Season 26 will air in Early 2019, and see Matt LeBlanc bow out as host. McGuinness, Flintoff and Harris will begin filming the 27th Season in early 2019 to air later in the year.
