Prue Leith has announced she is leaving the Great British Bake Off after nine years, triggering speculation over her replacement. According to reports, Nigella Lawson has emerged as the leading contender to join the judging panel.
The Sun reports that Channel 4 is in talks with the 66-year-old television cook, with a deal described as imminent. An insider told the publication that Lawson's global recognition and 'cheeky banter' would make her a 'sure-fire hit' in the tent.
Lawson, who is not a trained chef, has established herself as a TV cook and restaurant critic. She recently appeared as a guest judge on MasterChef Australia and has presented My Kitchen Rules since 2022. However, the news has split fans, with some worried the show may lose its distinctive charm.
One Reddit user said the programme would feel like 'any other cooking competition', while another suggested her 'forced cloying sizzle' would be a sharp shift from previous series. Others, though, have welcomed the potential appointment, calling her 'a great addition'.
Leith, who is 86, said the time felt right to step back and spend summers in her garden. Channel 4's chief content officer, Ian Katz, paid tribute to her 'joyous presence' and 'absolute culinary authority', adding that she leaves 'an indelible mark' on the show.
