Top Gear has announced comedian Paddy McGuinness and former cricketer Andrew ‘Freddie’ Flintoff as the show’s new hosts. The duo will join Chris Harris for the 27th season of Top Gear.
The news follows the announcement of Matt LeBlanc leaving the show after the completion of Top Gear’s 26th season. Rory Reid will step down from his presenting duties on the main show but will continue hosting the spin-off Extra Gear.
Paddy McGuinness is an English comedian, best known from hosting UK TV shows like Take Me Out. Andrew ‘Freddie’ Flintoff is a former England cricket captain and current broadcaster.
“To be hosting a show I’ve watched and loved from being a small boy is beyond exciting”, said Paddy McGuinness. “Top Gear fans worldwide are a passionate bunch and I consider myself one of them.”
“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”, added Freddie Flintoff. “I’ve always been passionate about cars and I’m so excited to be joining the Top Gear team.”
Matt LeBlanc’s last season in Top Gear will air in early 2019. Chris Harris, Paddy McGuinness and Freddie Flintoff will premiere as Top Gear’s new presenter lineup later in the same year.
Chris Harris commented: “I think you can tell just how much fun we’re going to have making Top Gear with Paddy and Freddie. They’re both brilliant, natural entertainers – and their mischief mixed with the most exciting cars on the planet is sure to take the show to the next level. My dream job just got even better.”