Matt LeBlanc signs 2-series deal to host BBC's Top Gear

The BBC says former Friendsstar Matt LeBlanc has signed a two-series deal to host its popular car show Top Gear.

The broadcaster announced Monday that LeBlanc will front the program when it returns for a 24th series in 2017.

LeBlanc was one of two hosts when Top Gearwas relaunched in May after the loss of its longstanding team of presenters.

His co-host, Chris Evans, quit in July after the show drew lacklustre ratings and lukewarm reviews.

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A mix of humour, stunts and automotive advice, Top Gearbecame a global hit under presenters Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May.

The trio left last year after an off-set dustup in which Clarkson punched a producer.

They are hosting a new car show, The Grand Tour,on Amazon Prime.