Matt LeBlanc has dismissed claims he and Chris Evans are “at war” as a “big load of bullsh*t”.
The Top Gear presenting duo have been the subject of reports alleging they do not get on.
The newly-launched show will return to television screens this weekend, featuring the all-new line-up of Evans, LeBlanc and four other hosts, plus The Stig.
Former Friends actor LeBlanc told the Radio Times: “All this stuff that Chris and I are at war with each other is a big load of bullsh*t. We’ve never had a rift!
“I’m a true car fan, Chris is a true car fan. We’re hanging out, having a laugh, doing our best. He is an extremely smart guy. I’d beat him in a race, though – and you can tell him I said that.”
The show’s popular Star In A Reasonably Priced Car segment will be replaced with Star In A Rallycross Car, which will feature a new car and a new track.
The actor, who rose to fame playing loveable Joey Tribbiani, admitted he had not expected the negativity the show has received, prior to it even airing.
“I didn’t anticipate the ruthlessness of the British press. I know it’s a big show but hey, we’re not cowboys, it’s all meticulously planned, permission granted, in writing,” he said.
“I didn’t fire those guys [Clarkson, Hammond and May]. I’ve met them. They’re nice guys. I’ll watch their new show. I wasn’t there when any of it went down. It’s not my fault they’re gone. I didn’t put a gun in anyone’s mouth.”
The former presenting trio will launch their own rival motoring show on Amazon Prime called The Grand Tour this summer.
Evans commented on teaser footage seen during the first trailer, which appeared to show him being sick after being driven around the track by motor racing driver Sabine Schmitz.
He said: “I don’t know if you’ve ever been driven around at really high speeds but when you are, it’s difficult. I was sick. The next week a Top Gun pilot was sick as well, so I’m in good company.”
- Read the full interview in this week’s Radio Times.
