Matt LeBlanc overwhelmed after Top Gear announcement

Matt LeBlanc: New Top Gear co-presenter. Picture: AP

Matt LeBlanc has said he cannot believe the reaction to his Top Gear appointment.

The revamped version of the BBC show is due to air in May, with the American star joining Chris Evans at the helm.

Le Blanc, best known for his role as goofy lothario Joey in Friends, said he has been “ducking paparazzi” since the announcement was made.

Speaking to his new co-host on Radio 2’s The Chris Evans Breakfast Show, Le Blanc, 48, said: “I can’t believe the response.

“I mean I knew Top Gear was a big show, but, wow, it was on the front page of The New York Times, did you know that?

“There was so much I couldn’t read it all.”

He added: “My day has been, thanks to Top Gear and the BBC, my day has been ducking paparazzi all day long, and now I’m relaxing with a glass of wine at my bar.”

Evans revealed that the pair would be going to South Africa, and added: “Do you want to stay at mine because I’ll get you a new key cut, or do you want me to look for a place for you?”

LeBlanc is no stranger to presenting for Top Gear and recently hosted a spin-off called Top Gear: The Races.

Evans confirmed the news on Thursday.