New "Top Gear" Front Man Quits

Chris Evans, who was hired last year to take over the main hosting responsibilities for "Top Gear," is leaving the irreverent BBC television show after just one season.

Evans announced his departure on social media shortly after the final episode of the season aired this week. He had two more years left on his contract.

The British radio and television star replaced former front man Jeremy Clarkson, who was fired last year for assaulting one of the show’s producers. But viewership plunged under Evans this year, which was blamed in part by his “shouty” hosting style. There also have been several reports of behind-the-scenes problems, including friction between Evans and co-host Matt LeBlanc.

It isn’t clear if Evans will be replaced or if his responsibilities will be absorbed by LeBlanc and the show’s other co-hosts. Filming of the next season will begin later this year.