Great British Bake Off fans swoon over Nigella Lawson ahead of debut
The show returns next monthGreat British Bake Off fans were left swooning over Nigella Lawson ahead of her debut on the Channel 4 show.
The chef will make her debut on The Great British Bake Off alongside Paul Hollywood after Prue Leith stepped down following nine years as a judge.
The show will return to Channel 4 in September 2026, bringing a fresh batch of bakers and a major change to the judging line-up. Alison Hammond and Noel Fielding will return as hosts, completing the new Bake Off team.
Nigella Lawson set to make Great British Bake Off debut
Nigella marked the upcoming return of Bake Off with an Instagram clip. It showed her approaching the camera in a purple jumpsuit on set. Holding a fork, she declared: “Oh, luscious!”
Immediately it sparked a flurry of comments from excited fans on Instagram. Among them, one said: “Innuendos will reach sky high to another level. Hope Alison, Paul and Noel behaves.”
Others said: “Love it that you have this gig. My favourite baker, but then again always hard a crush.”
Someone else wrote: “What a goddess she is.”
“Have not watched Bake Off in years but I would watch Nigella opening a packet of crisps,” another added.
One fan gushed: “I’m even more excited now, to see you on Great British Bake Off. You’re looking fabulous. You’ll be wonderful, I know!!”
Another commented: “You look amazing Nigella. Best of luck we will be watching for sure.”
In the caption, the TV cook wrote: “I’m a bit nervous, very excited, and extremely happy: Bake Off is back on our screens next month! I’ve loved every minute. It’s a real honour to be part of something so special.”
She also thanked Paul, Alison and Noel for making her feel part of the Bake Off family. Nigella called a job involving the trio and cake a “dream job”.
The show confirmed Nigella’s appointment in January. At the time, she admitted that following Prue and former judge Mary Berry felt daunting. However, she also described The Great British Bake Off as a “National Treasure” and said joining the programme represented a huge honour.
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Alison Hammond teases Nigella and Paul Hollywood’s chemistry
Viewers can also expect a lively new judging partnership. During an appearance on Lorraine in May, Alison said Nigella and Paul’s chemistry was “unbelievable” after watching them work together during filming.
Alison revealed that the judges did not always share the same verdict. She told the ITV programme: “Honestly, they’re so good together. Because I’ll be honest with you, they don’t always agree, and it’s so good!”
Nigella has previously suggested Bake Off’s lasting appeal comes from its focus on community. Now fans have only a few more weeks to wait before she joins Paul at the judging table, while Alison and Noel attempt to keep the new bakers smiling under pressure.
When does The Great British Bake Off return?
The Great British Bake Off returns to Channel 4 in September 2026, with the exact launch date yet to be announced.
A Netflix representative also confirmed to People that US viewers will receive episodes weekly after each UK broadcast, following the same pattern as previous years.
The September return means viewers will soon see how Nigella approaches the famous tent. She takes over Prue’s seat and will judge the new bakers alongside Paul.
Great British Bake Off returns to Channel 4 in September 2026.
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