Prue Leith, the colorful icon of the BBC’s baking competition, has announced she will step down after nine seasons. The 86-year-old, who joined the show in 2017, said she wants to spend more time gardening and pursuing other interests. Her departure marks the end of an era for fans who have watched her judge over 400 challenges.
At a Glance
- Prue Leith steps down after nine seasons, 400+ challenges judged.
- 86-year-old will focus on gardening and other pursuits.
- Replacement not yet announced; show sends well-wishes.
- Why it matters: Fans and viewers will miss her vibrant personality and expertise.
Background
Before joining the baking competition, Leith had a long culinary career. She ran a Michelin-starred restaurant in London from the late 1960s until the 1990s. She also wrote for newspapers and published dozens of cookbooks and novels. Her experience spans more than 60 years of cooking.
Joining the Bake Off
Leith joined the show in 2017, replacing Mary Berry and teaming up with judge Paul Hollywood. That same year Noel Fielding joined as host. In 2023, Alison Hammond joined the judging panel.
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 2017 | Leith joins as judge, replaces Mary Berry; Noel Fielding becomes host |
| 2023 | Alison Hammond added to judging panel |
The Announcement
On Jan. 21, Leith posted on Instagram that she would step down after nine series. She thanked fellow judges Paul, Alison, and Noel, and the teams at Love Productions and Channel 4. She said she would miss working with them and wanted to spend summers in her garden.
> “After nine series and judging more than 400 challenges, I have decided to step down as a judge on The Great British Bake Off,” she wrote. “Bake Off has been a fabulous part of my life for the last 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.”
She added:
> “But now feels like the right time to step back (I’m 86 for goodness sake!), there’s so much I’d like to do, not least spend summers enjoying my garden,” Leith wrote. “Whoever joins the team, I’m sure they’ll love it as much as I have. I feel very lucky to have been part of it.”
Reactions
Fielding paid tribute in the comments, calling her a “National Treasure” and praising her energy and humor. The show posted a message on X thanking her for nine brilliant years in the tent. Fans and former contestants sent heartfelt messages.
- Rahul Mandal: “We will miss you so much. It was a joy and privilege to be in the tent (with) you…”
- Jasmine Mitchell: “Awwwww, Prue you’re amazing and we will miss you so very much…”
The show’s X account read:
> “Our wonderful Prue has decided to step away from judging Bake Off. From joyful judging to colourful fits to accidental innuendoes, you are simply the best and will be so missed. Please join us in wishing Prue the very best and thanking her for nine brilliant years in the Tent.”
Legacy and Impact
Leith has been a favorite for her cooking acumen, bubbly personality, and colorful outfits. In 2022, she discussed the show’s appeal on TODAY with Jenna Bush Hager and Hoda Kotb, noting it offers comfort, kindness, and encouragement.
> “I think it taps into some need for something comforting, kind, encouraging, actually nice,” she said.
Her presence on the show brought a sense of warmth and humor that many viewers identified with. Colleagues praised her as a “National Treasure,” and her departure leaves a noticeable gap in the panel.
Key Takeaways
- Prue Leith will no longer judge after nine seasons.
- She plans to focus on gardening and other interests.
- Her replacement is yet to be announced.
- Fans and colleagues celebrate her legacy and wish her well.
Future Outlook
While the show has not named a successor, the production team has expressed confidence that the next judge will continue the tradition of high standards and engaging personalities. The audience can expect a new face to step into the tent in the coming season, but the legacy of Leith’s vibrant energy will remain.
About the Show
The Great British Bake Off is a Netflix cooking hit that has captivated audiences with its friendly competition and culinary creativity. The series has aired nine seasons and features a panel of judges, including Paul Hollywood, Alison Hammond, Noel Fielding, and now Prue Leith. The show is produced by Love Productions and broadcast on Channel 4.
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Note: This story first appeared on TODAY.com.
