GBBO fans devastated as Matt Lucas hosts show for final time

2023-04-16

As the final episode of the latest series of the Great Celebrity Bake Off kicked off on Sunday night, as well as raising money for the vital Stand Up To Cancer campaign, it also marked a solemn milestone for host Matt Lucas, as it was the last episode the star would be presenting.

For the past two years, Matt alongside his partner in crime Noel Fielding, have provided words of wisdom and support to our favourite bakers as they tried to impress the judges while in the Bake Off tent.

But in December last year it was announced that Matt would no longer be hosting the show, after three seasons, as it clashed with his ongoing commitment to film Fantasy Football League for Sky.

During his time on the show, he filmed a total of 51 episodes and was always there for the stressed baker who needed his support when their dessert, cake or tart went wrong.

"Farewell Bake Off! It's been a delicious experience and I can't imagine a more fun way of spending my summers. But it's become clear to me that I can't present both Fantasy Football League and Bake Off alongside all my other projects," he wrote on twitter at the time.

"So, after three series and 51 episodes, I am cheerfully passing the baguette on to someone else.”

He added: "I would like to give my warmest thanks and gratitude to everyone at Love Productions and Channel 4 and to Noelipops, Paul, Dame Prue, the crew and, of course, the wonderful bakers for welcoming me into the tent.

"I wish whoever takes over the very best and I can't wait to tune into the next series without already knowing who won!"

As Matt’s final scenes aired on Sunday, many fans at home couldn’t believe he was leaving already, as it only felt like yesterday that he had taken over the reins from former host Sandi Toksvig.

“How is it Matt’s last show already?!” exclaimed one viewer as they realised tonight would be his final outing on the show.

“Nooooo. Matt’s banter with Noel was legendary!” lamented another fan.

Before a third added: “When You Realise Tonight is Matt Lucas's Final Bake Off!!!”

Although Matt will no longer be presenting the show, he has confirmed his commitment to continue watching and cheer on the bakers from his sofa – while also eagerly cheering on his replacement Alison Hammond.

The official GBBO social media channels announced Alison’s appointment in March this year, as they shared their excitement that the This Morning favourite would soon be at the helm.

Sharing the news on social media, the baking competition's official Instagram page quipped that they had "baking news".

"We’re delighted to announce that Alison Hammond will be joining forces with Noel Fielding to host the next series of The Great British Bake Off on @Channel4 later this year," the post read.

"We cannot wait!" they added.

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