Why is Prue Leith leaving The Great British Bake Off?

EntertainmentLifestyle
29 Jan 2026 • 10:00 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • Dame Prue Leith has announced her departure as a judge from The Great British Bake Off after nine series.
  • Her decision stems from a desire to "work less and play more" and to have summer holidays, which the show's filming schedule previously prevented.
  • Leith joined the Channel 4 baking competition in 2017, overseeing more than 400 challenges during her tenure.
  • Acclaimed TV cook and author Nigella Lawson will succeed Leith on the popular baking programme.
  • Leith praised Lawson as "a great baker" and "mighty glam", while expressing that she will miss her colleagues and the show's unique atmosphere.

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