Dame Prue Leith has revealed she felt a "pang" when she watched Nigella Lawson on the Great British Bake Off for the first time. The 86-year-old, who left the show last year after almost a decade, said she questioned her decision upon seeing her replacement on screen.
A Twinge of Regret
In an interview with Woman magazine, Dame Prue said: "I thought, 'Why did I leave? That was such a great job.' But I'm glad I did."
She described the role as "the best job in television" and noted that she, Paul Hollywood, Alison Hammond and Noel Fielding remain great friends. "I didn't give it up because I didn't like it. I loved it!" she added.
Reason for Leaving
Dame Prue decided to leave due to the show's demanding production schedule and a desire for more time with her husband, John Playfair. She explained: "I'm running out of time. There will come a time when I'm not able to travel. John and I want to do more while I still can. I left for the specific reason that if I didn't, I wouldn't get another European holiday."
Praise for Nigella Lawson
Dame Prue has previously expressed her fondness for Lawson. During an appearance on This Morning in August, she said: "I didn't have to give her any tips, but I did tell her to just enjoy it because she's so good. She was quite nervous. She's so well qualified and knows exactly what she's doing, and the audience love her. I saw her and Paul last week, and they're getting on well. She's nice, I'm glad it's her."
Dame Prue's predecessor, Dame Mary Berry, has also praised the 66-year-old TV cook. Speaking at Cheltenham Literature Festival to promote her new book, the 91-year-old said Lawson has brought "fresh life" and "glamour" to the series. "I am delighted Nigella is there. She has got to keep control of a certain person. Paul [Hollywood] needs handling and he has this handshake, which keeps appearing."
