The Great British Bake Off host Alison Hammond has offered a glimpse into the dynamic between new judge Nigella Lawson and Paul Hollywood, describing their chemistry as 'unbelievable'. Appearing on ITV's Lorraine on Monday, May 4, Hammond discussed the upcoming series, which has begun filming, and confirmed that Lawson has taken over from Prue Leith as the latest judge.
During the interview, Lorraine Kelly asked Hammond about the new judge, to which she replied: 'She's so lovely. Nigella is incredible. Obviously we've started, so I've been watching.' Hammond then added: 'I'm telling you, the chemistry between her and Paul is unbelievable,' before quickly clarifying: 'Not in that sort of way!'
A picture of Paul Hollywood and Nigella Lawson was displayed on screen, prompting Hammond to remark: 'Don't they look good looking?' Kelly jokingly responded: 'Do you know what, that looks like a crime scene, doesn't it?!'
Hammond continued: 'But honestly, they're so good together! I'll be honest with you, they don't always agree - it's so good,' with Kelly concluding: 'No, that's fine, and that works.'
Prue Leith announced her departure from the hit competition in January after nine years. The 85-year-old restaurateur and broadcaster first joined the series in 2017 when it moved from the BBC to Channel 4. In a statement, Leith said: 'Bake Off has been a fabulous part of my life for nine years. I have genuinely loved it and I'm sure I'll miss working with my fellow judge Paul, Alison and Noel, and the teams at Love Productions and Channel 4.'
Speaking about stepping into Leith's shoes, Nigella Lawson expressed her excitement: '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 added: '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. 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!'
The Great British Bake Off will return to Channel 4 later this year.
