Channel 4 Cancels Great British Bake Off Episode Featuring Scott Mills
Channel 4 has announced that the final episode of The Great Celebrity Bake Off for Stand Up to Cancer, featuring the radio DJ Scott Mills, will not be broadcast. This decision follows Mills' dismissal from BBC Radio 2 last month after new information emerged regarding his conduct.
Background of the Allegations
Scott Mills, 53, was sacked as the host of BBC Radio 2's breakfast show in March. The BBC stated it first became aware of a police investigation into historical allegations of sexual abuse in 2017 but terminated his contract based on recent developments aligning with its culture and values. Mills had already filmed his appearance for the baking competition, with the episode originally scheduled to air on Sunday, 19 April.
Channel 4's Statement
In a formal statement, Channel 4 explained: "Having carefully considered the circumstances, we've taken the decision not to air the final episode of the 2026 series of The Great Celebrity Bake Off for Stand Up to Cancer, featuring Scott Mills. Acknowledging the seriousness of the accusations that have been made against Scott, we don't believe it would be appropriate to air the episode at this time. An alternative episode of Celebrity GBBO will go out in its place."
Details of the Police Investigation
The allegations against Mills involve serious sexual offences against a boy under 16, with the Metropolitan police noting the incidents were alleged to have occurred between 1997 and 2000, when Mills was in his twenties. A police inquiry began in 2016, and Mills was interviewed under caution in 2018. However, the Crown Prosecution Service closed the investigation in 2019, citing insufficient evidence to bring charges. The original complaint was made to police in Hampshire, Mills' native county.
Impact on Mills' Career and Charities
Since his sacking, Mills has faced further repercussions. He has stepped back from his role as an ambassador for MS Society UK, and Neuroblastoma UK, a children's cancer charity where he served as a patron since 2021, has decided to part ways with him. Additionally, Mills has been dropped as the host of the BBC's new Race Across the World spin-off podcast.
Series Context and Mills' Response
The 2026 series of The Great Celebrity Bake Off has been airing weekly since 22 March, featuring celebrities such as Molly-Mae Hague, JoJo Siwa, and Vicky Pattison. In a statement last week, Mills addressed the allegations: "An allegation was made against me in 2016 of a historic sexual offence which was the subject of a police investigation in which I fully cooperated and responded to in 2018. As the police have stated, a file of evidence was submitted to the Crown Prosecution Service, which determined that the evidential threshold had not been met to bring charges. Since the investigation related to an allegation that dates back nearly 30 years and the police investigation was closed seven years ago, I hope the public and the media will understand and respect my wish not to make any further public comment."
Broader Implications
This incident highlights ongoing concerns about historical allegations in the media industry and the swift actions taken by broadcasters and charities in response. Channel 4's move underscores the sensitivity surrounding such cases, even when legal proceedings have concluded without charges.
