Why is Matt Lucas leaving Bake Off? Who will replace him?
by Hemalatha R
Updated Mar 23, 2023
Matt Lucas
Matthew Richard Lucas is a versatile English actor, comedian, writer, and television presenter, best known for his work on various British comedy shows. Lucas was born on March 5, 1974, in Paddington, London. He rose to fame through his appearances as the scorekeeper George Dawes on the BBC's comedy panel show, Shooting Stars. He went on to become a household name for his collaboration with David Walliams on the BBC sketch comedy series, Little Britain and Come Fly with Me. He has also appeared in numerous films, including Astro Boy, Alice in Wonderland, Bridesmaids, Gnomeo & Juliet, Small Apartments, and Paddington.
Why Is Matt Lucas Leaving Bake Off?
Matt Lucas, the actor and comedian who co-hosted the popular baking competition show, “The Great British Bake Off,” is stepping down after three seasons on the show. The star announced his departure on Twitter, citing scheduling conflicts with his new series, “Fantasy Football League,” which will air on Sky. Lucas expressed his gratitude to the show and his co-workers, saying, “It’s been a huge honor to be part of this incredible show, and I’m grateful for the memories.” However, he also acknowledged that it had become increasingly difficult to balance his commitments to “Bake Off” and his other projects. “It’s become clear to me that I can’t present both ‘Fantasy Football League’ and ‘Bake Off’ alongside all my other projects,” he explained. Lucas joined “Bake Off” for its 11th season, taking over from co-host Sandi Toksvig. He teamed up with fellow host Noel Fielding and judges Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith. The first two seasons of his stint were filmed under strict COVID restrictions, which required the entire production to remain sequestered together in a “COVID bubble.”
Who will Replace Matt Lucas?
The departure of Lucas is a significant loss for the show, which has enjoyed a massive following in the UK and internationally. Fans of “Bake Off” praised Lucas for his witty banter, infectious personality, and ability to keep the show’s contestants at ease during tense moments. While Lucas will be missed, the show’s producers are already on the hunt for his replacement. Alison Hammond is set to take over from Matt Lucas as the new co-host of The Great British Bake Off, alongside Noel Fielding, in the upcoming season of the popular Channel 4 baking show. The This Morning presenter shared her excitement about the news in a social media video, which showed miniature icing models of herself, Fielding, and judges Paul Hollywood and Dame Prue Leith. Hammond expressed her delight and anticipation, stating that she was "absolutely thrilled" and "so very excited."
The Great British Bake Off
The Great British Bake Off has become a cultural phenomenon in the UK and around the world. This popular television baking competition, produced by Love Productions, features a group of amateur bakers who compete against each other in a series of rounds, with one contestant eliminated in each round. The winner is ultimately chosen from the contestants who reach the final, and they are judged by Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith. The first episode of the show aired on August 17th, 2010, on BBC Two, with the first four series broadcast on this channel. As the show's popularity grew, the BBC moved it to BBC One for the next three series. However, after its seventh series, Love Productions signed a deal with Channel 4 to produce the series for the broadcaster. The show's popularity can be attributed to its format and its engaging presenters. Originally presented by Sue Perkins and Mel Giedroyc, the show's current hosts are Noel Fielding and Alison Hammond. The judges, Mary Berry and Paul Hollywood were replaced by Prue Leith after the show moved to Channel 4.
The show's impact on baking in the UK and Ireland has been significant. Many shops have reported a sharp rise in sales of baking ingredients and accessories, and many of the show's participants, including winners, have gone on to start a career in baking. The Great British Bake Off has also spawned a number of specials and spin-off shows. These include a celebrity charity series in aid of Sport Relief/Comic Relief or Stand Up to Cancer, a children's version called Junior Bake Off, and the after-show series An Extra Slice. Additionally, Bake Off: The Professionals is a spin-off for teams of pastry chefs. The show has been sold globally for the production of localized versions and has been shown in other countries, including the US and Canada, where it is called The Great British Baking Show. The show's format has also been used as the basis for two BBC Two series, The Great British Sewing Bee and The Great Pottery Throw Down. On September 27th, 2022, it was confirmed that The Great British Bake Off will return in 2023 for its fourteenth series, much to the delight of its loyal fanbase.
Why Is Matt Lucas Leaving Bake Off - FAQs
The original hosts of "The Great British Bake Off" were Sue Perkins and Mel Giedroyc, and the judges were Mary Berry and Paul Hollywood.
"The Great British Bake Off" first aired on August 17, 2010.
The original hosts of The Great British Bake Off were Sue Perkins and Mel Giedroyc, and the judges were Mary Berry and Paul Hollywood.
The current hosts of The Great British Bake Off are Noel Fielding and Alison Hammond, and the judges are Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith.
Yes, The Great British Bake Off has been shown in other countries, including the United States and Canada, where it is called "The Great British Baking Show."
Yes, The Great British Bake Off is credited with reinvigorating interest in baking throughout the United Kingdom and Ireland, with shops reporting sharp rises in sales of baking ingredients and accessories.