Prue Leith reveals sad reason she left Bake Off as she admits feeling a 'pang' after seeing Nigella Lawson take over
Nigella has taken over Prue's spot on the Channel 4 showPrue Leith has revealed she left The Great British Bake Off to travel while she still can.
Speaking to OK!, the 86-year-old explained that summer filming had limited holidays with her husband, John Playfair.
After nine years judging the competition, she wanted more time for travel and her grandchildren. Watching Nigella Lawson’s first episode nevertheless left her briefly questioning the decision.
Why Prue Leith stepped away from Bake Off
Her decision reflected a practical concern: making the most of travelling before it becomes harder.
She said: “I’m running out of time. There will come a time when I’m not able to travel.”
She and John wanted to explore more together, rather than keep committing their summers to filming.
That change has already meant a family holiday in the south of France, with around 15 relatives. Prue said it was their first summer trip with the whole family in a decade.
They rented a large house, spending time on the beach while the teenagers surfed. She has also returned from exploring the Baltic region with John and plans a week in Berlin.
Time with her grandchildren matters, too. A promised baking lesson now involves plans for around eight children to stay overnight.
Prue Leith’s feelings about Nigella Lawson
Leaving did not mean she had fallen out of love with Bake Off.
Prue praised Nigella’s performance, although seeing her in the role briefly made her miss the job. She recalled wondering why she had walked away.
She said: “I didn’t give it up because I didn’t like it. I loved it! And when I watched Nigella Lawson doing her first episode – and by the way, I think she’s terrific at it – I did feel a pang. I thought, ‘Why did I leave? That was such a great job.’ But I’m glad I did.”
Her friendships with Paul Hollywood, Alison Hammond and Noel Fielding have continued beyond the tent. They recently reunited at Paul’s 60th birthday celebration.
What Prue Leith is doing after Bake Off
She is still filming Prue Leith’s Cotswolds Kitchen with John, enjoying the convenience of working at home.
Prue also has writing projects in mind, including a possible biography of her mother, actress Margaret Inglis. However, she remains undecided after discovering gaps and muddle in her mother’s diaries.
Another television appearance could appeal, too: she said she would probably accept Celebrity Traitors if invited. She has not been approached and admitted she had never watched the programme.
She added: “I usually say yes to everything.”
The Great British Bake Off continues Tuesday October 20 from 8pm on Channel 4
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