Nigella Lawson has been named the newest judge on The Great British Bake Off, joining Paul Hollywood and taking over from Dame Prue Leith, who recently announced her departure. At 66 years old, Nigella brings a wealth of culinary experience, having hosted her own BBC cooking shows and previously presenting the Channel 4 contest The Taste.
Expressing her excitement and respect for the role, Nigella said, “I’m uncharacteristically rather lost for words right now! Of course, it’s daunting to follow in the footsteps of Prue Leith and Mary Berry, who are both great dames, but I’m bubbling with excitement. The Great British Bake Off is more than a TV programme – it’s a National Treasure. I’m honoured to be entrusted with it and thrilled to join the team and meet the new bakers.”
Dame Prue Leith warmly endorsed her successor, saying, “I’m thrilled that Nigella will experience the brilliant Bake Off. She’s sassy, fun, and knows her onions – as well as her croissants, cakes, and crumbles.”
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Channel 4’s Chief Content Officer, Ian Katz, added, “We’re incredibly excited about combining two British icons: Bake Off and Nigella. Nigella brings warmth, expertise, and sophistication. This summer’s series promises to be as delicious as her famous chocolate Guinness cake.”
Prue Leith announced her departure on January 21st after judging over 400 challenges throughout nine series. She reflected, “Bake Off has been a fabulous part of my life, and while I will miss everyone, I feel the time is right to step back and enjoy other pursuits — especially summers in my garden.”
Prue joined the show in 2017 when it moved from the BBC to Channel 4, succeeding Mary Berry from the BBC era. Ralph Lee, CEO of Love Productions, expressed his delight at Nigella’s addition, emphasizing her passion for baking and her ability to connect with audiences.
Filming of The Great British Bake Off, featuring Nigella, will take place this summer in the iconic tent, with new episodes airing later this year. The show is available for streaming on Channel 4.