Nigella Lawson announced as new Great British Bake Off judge as Prue Leith gives her seal of approval
All change as Paul Hollywood gets new co-judgeGreat British Bake Off legend Prue Leith announced she was leaving the show after nine years last week – and now Nigella Lawson has been officially named as her replacement.
In 2017, Prue replaced Mary Berry whenever she stepped away from her role. She went onto judge the show with Paul Hollywood. It’s hosted by Alison Hammond and Noel Fielding.
But with Prue ready to move on, and focus on different aspects of her life, the gang are in need of a new foodie judge… step forward Nigella Lawson.
Prue Leith quits Great British Bake Off
Prue confirmed the news she was leaving on her Instagram last week (January 21), revealing how she will “miss” working on the show.
Sharing a series of images, Prue penned: “After nine series, and judging more than 400 challenges, I have decided to step down as a judge on The Great British Bake Off.
“Bake Off has been a fabulous part of my life for the last nine years. I have genuinely loved it and I’m sure I will miss working with my fellow judge Paul, Alison and Noel, and the teams at Love Productions and Channel 4. But now feels like the right time to take a step back (I’m 86 for goodness sake!).”
As for what she wants to do with her new spare time, Prue already has plans made. She continued: “There is so much I would like to do, not least spend summers enjoying my garden.”
Prue concluded: “Whoever joins the team, I am sure they will love it as much as I have. I feel very lucky to have been part of it.”
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‘A joyous presence’
The Sun first reported the news of Prue’s exit, and included quotes from both Love Productions, and Channel 4.
Love Productions said that she will “always” have a piece of Bake Off’s heart. While Channel 4’s Ian Katz said that she has been a “joyous presence” on the show and will be “missed” by everyone.
He explained: “We will miss her wry, gentle judgement but look forward to working with her on new projects.”
So, while she may be leaving Bake Off, Prue’s Channel 4 future may not be over.
Fans heartbroken at the news
Immediately, fans flooded the comments with their sadness at losing her from their screens.
One penned: “Absolute legend Dame Prue! Your legacy shall never be forgotten.”
Another commented: “You are an absolute icon of the baking world and will be so missed. Especially your naughty double entendres.”
“You will be a very hard act to follow, Prue,” a third penned.
A fan begged her to stay: “No, please don’t go. We are going to miss you on TV so much.”
“What a run! Thanks for helping putting joy and love into our lives. In the insanity of the world, you helped make GBBO a sanctuary from the chaos,” another commented.
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Nigella Lawson named as new Bake Off host
Today (January 26), Nigella Lawson, 66, has been officially sworn in as host of the Bake Off.
In a statement, she said: “I’m uncharacteristically rather lost for words right now. Of course it’s daunting to be following in the footsteps of Prue Leith and Mary Berry before her, great dames both, but I’m also bubbling with excitement.
“The Great British Bake Off is more than a television programme, it’s a National Treasure – and it’s a huge honour to be entrusted with it. I’m just thrilled to be joining the team and all the new bakers to come, I wish the marvellous Prue all the best, and am giddily grateful for the opportunity!”
Prue commented on the post and said: “I was so hoping it would be Nigella! Brilliant choice.”
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