Bake Off’s Prue Leith gives verdict on Nigella Lawson replacing her

Prue Leith, who is leaving The Great British Bake Off, has shared her opinion on Nigella Lawson, who will be taking her place. Leith announced last week that she was leaving the Channel 4 show after being a judge for almost ten years.

It was later confirmed that Nigella would take over from Prue, and Prue has since said she thinks it’s a great choice.

In a piece for The Times, she described a talented baker, praising her skill with everything from breads to pastries. She also noted the baker is kind, stylish, intelligent, and has a lot of personality. She added that she was relieved this person wasn’t competing nine years prior.

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Prue admitted she’d been considering leaving Bake Off for a long time. She ultimately decided to step down because she wanted to reduce her workload and have more time for leisure, especially enjoying longer summer breaks.

Nigella has confessed to feeling a little nervous about stepping into the role, telling viewers on This Morning that while she’s excited, she also feels a lot of responsibility. She admitted it wouldn’t be truthful to say she wasn’t at all worried.

I’m really clumsy, so I’m hoping I don’t accidentally knock over any of the cakes.

Nigella playfully responded to criticism of her judging by explaining that she focuses on what she enjoys rather than finding flaws.

That’s just how I approach life – it’s not really a philosophy, more of a general outlook. I see Paul Hollywood as the technical expert, while I’m all about enjoying the finished product. Thinking of my job as simply eating makes it much easier – and I’m definitely happy to do that!

Honestly, I was a little intimidated taking on this role. It’s a big deal following in the footsteps of so many amazing people, and I really wanted to do the legacy justice. It felt more about carrying on something special than trying to be better than anyone else, you know?

Nigella admitted she was surprisingly speechless when she first learned of the news. While acknowledging the impressive legacy of previous judges Prue Leith and Mary Berry, she also expressed her enthusiastic anticipation for the role.

The popular show, The Great British Bake Off, and its companion show, Bake Off: An Extra Slice, are broadcast on Channel 4 in the UK. American viewers know it as The Great British Baking Show and can watch it on Netflix.

Read more Great British Bake Off news on our dedicated homepage

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2026-01-30 16:50