Alison Hammond has enthusiastically revealed that she has already formed a warm and immediate bond with her new Bake Off co-star, the celebrated TV chef Nigella Lawson. The pair have even enjoyed a delightful day out together, signalling a promising start to their professional relationship on the iconic baking competition.
A Natural Connection and Shared Chemistry
Speaking ahead of the commencement of filming this month, Alison expressed her admiration for Nigella, highlighting her 'naughty' side that fans have come to adore through her cooking series, often peppered with cheeky innuendos. Alison elaborated, stating, "I went to meet her the other day. Oh my gosh, she's lovely. She's so nice. I loved her. She's everything and more than I thought she was going to be."
She further told The Mirror, "She's a natural beauty. She's kind. She loves her family, but really quite naughty as well. I feel like she's a bit naughty." This playful dynamic is expected to bring a fresh and engaging energy to the show.
Nigella's Integration with the Bake Off Team
Alison also shared that Nigella has already hit it off splendidly with co-judge Paul Hollywood, suggesting their partnership in the famous tent will be a tremendous hit with viewers. "It's funny because she said she really got on with Paul. It was really lovely," Alison noted, indicating a smooth transition for the new judge.
Nigella Lawson, aged 66, is set to join Paul Hollywood as a judge on the new series later this year, following Prue Leith's announcement that she was stepping down from the show. This change marks a significant shift for the beloved programme.
Nigella's Honoured Yet Daunting New Role
Nigella herself had previously admitted to feeling daunted by the substantial shoes she has to fill, succeeding two 'great dames' in Prue Leith and the original judge Dame Mary Berry. In a statement, she expressed, "I'm uncharacteristically rather lost for words right now. Of course it's daunting to be following in the footsteps of Prue Leith and Mary Berry before her, great dames both, but I'm also bubbling with excitement."
She emphasised the significance of the show, adding, "The Great British Bake Off is more than a television programme, it's a National Treasure – and it's a huge honour to be entrusted with it." Nigella concluded with gratitude, saying, "I'm just thrilled to be joining the team and all the new bakers to come, I wish the marvellous Prue all the best, and am giddily grateful for the opportunity!"
Prue Leith's Endorsement and Departure Reasons
Nigella has received wholehearted approval from Dame Prue Leith, who commented, "I'm thrilled that Nigella is to experience brilliant Bake Off. She's sassy, fun and she knows her onions — and her croissants, cake and crumble." This endorsement underscores the confidence in Nigella's ability to uphold the show's legacy.
Prue later revealed her reasons for leaving the Great British Bake Off, citing a desire for a better work-life balance. Speaking to The Spectator, she explained, "I have been dithering for years about when to stop judging The Great British Bake Off. When I joined nine years ago, I thought, since I was in my mid-seventies, that I'd be lucky to manage two years."
She reflected on her longevity, noting, "But my marbles stayed more or less in place and there seemed no good reason to give up a job I loved." Ultimately, Prue stated, "Finally, though, the desire to work less and play more got to me. Bake Off and its offshoots such as The Great American Baking Show and even the Christmas specials are all filmed in the summer, which has meant I could never have a summer holiday."
Alison's Busy Schedule and Career Choices
Meanwhile, Alison Hammond is set to star on the upcoming Channel 4 series Your Song and recently confirmed that she was approached to be the new host of Strictly Come Dancing. However, the This Morning star admitted she turned down the offer due to her packed schedule, telling Radio Times she's "too busy" and "very happy" with her current roles.
This decision highlights Alison's strategic career management as she balances multiple high-profile projects, including her new involvement with Bake Off alongside Nigella Lawson.
