Matt Lucas has bid “farewell” to the Great British Bake Off, stepping down from his presenting role after three seasons on the show. The 48-year-old comedian is exiting the series to focus on other work projects.
Lucas has co-hosted the popular UK reality show, which involves home bakers competing to win the honorary title of Britain’s best amateur baker, since replacing fellow comedian Sandi Toksvig in 2020. Fellow host Noel Fielding will remain on the show, alongside Lucas’ replacement who is yet to be announced.
Matt Lucas, Noel Fielding, Paul Hollywood, Prue Leith on The Great British Bake Off season 12Credit:Love Productions/Foxtel
“It’s been a delicious experience and I can’t imagine a more fun way of spending my summers,” Lucas said on Twitter. “But it’s become clear to me that I can’t present both Fantasy Football League and Bake Off alongside all my other projects.
“So, after three series and 51 episodes, I am cheerfully passing the baguette on to someone else.”
His departure was immediately acknowledged by the show’s judges Paul Hollywood and Dame Prue Leith. Leith thanked Lucas “for bringing so much laughter and fun to the tent”. In a separate post, Hollywood said Lucas would be missed.
“I wish whoever takes over all the very best and I can’t wait to tune in to the next series without already knowing who won!” Lucas said.
Lucas and fellow comedian Elis James recently revived the football chatshow Fantasy Football League, which had last aired in 2004. His announcement suggests a longer life for the nascent series beyond its initial 16-week start.
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