Bake Off fans have warmly welcomed the news that pastry chef Cherish Finden will be stepping in as a judge for the upcoming Stand Up To Cancer series. Cherish, known for her role as a judge on Bake Off: The Professionals, will be joining Paul Hollywood in the tent when the Channel 4 series returns later this year.
This announcement follows Prue Leith’s departure from the main Bake Off show after nine series. Prue had recently been replaced by Nigella Lawson on the main programme, and now Cherish is stepping in for the special Stand Up To Cancer edition.
The news was shared via Instagram, featuring a photo of Cherish alongside Paul Hollywood and Bake Off hosts Alison Hammond and Noel Fielding. The caption read: “Cherish will be joining us in the Tent for The Great Stand Up To Cancer Bake Off!”
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Cherish expressed her enthusiasm, saying, “I’m delighted to be joining Paul in judging Celebrity Bake Off for SU2C. While precision is important, judging amazing celebrities is about creating joy and supporting a worthy cause.”
Fans took to social media to express their excitement. Comments included “great news,” “love love love Cherish,” and “so happy about this and for such a good cause.” Others were eager to see the chemistry between Cherish, Paul, Alison, and Noel, calling Cherish their “favourite judge to join the team.”
This special series will feature a line-up of celebrities competing in the Signature, Technical, and Showstopper challenges. Participants include former Celebrity Big Brother star JoJo Siwa, Love Island’s Molly-Mae Hague, ex-Strictly contestant Vicky Pattison, actor Emmett J Scanlan, broadcaster Edith Bowman, actor Ralf Little, and comedian Joe Wilkinson.
Prue Leith first stepped back from the Great Celebrity Bake Off for Stand Up To Cancer in 2025, and then announced her full departure from the show this year. In a heartfelt Instagram post, Prue reflected on her nine years and more than 400 challenges on the show, expressing gratitude and saying the time was right to move on, especially to enjoy other interests like gardening.
Bake Off continues to be a beloved fixture on Channel 4, bringing together talented bakers, beloved hosts, and passionate viewers in support of a great cause.