Replacing Sandi Toksvig

Matt Lucas is to be the new host of Great British Bake Off.

He will be joining Noel Fielding and judges Prue Leith and Paul Hollywood following the departure of Sandi Toksvig in January.

The Little Britain star said: ‘I’m chuffed to bits to be joining the most delicious show on television. I can’t wait to break bread with Noel, Prue and Paul and meet the brilliant bakers. 

‘And bearing in mind my love of cake, I’ve already ordered some much larger trousers in anticipation. See you in the tent!’

Lucas celebrated the news by posting a photo of himself as Little Britain's 'fat fighter' Marjorie Dawes with a tray of cakes:

mood : pic.twitter.com/P15F164n47

— Matt Lucas (@RealMattLucas) March 11, 2020

Fielding added: ‘I love Matt. I love his warmth and his comedy and his big joyful smile. I think if we play our cards right we could become the next Chas and Morph.’

He was also welcomed by the judges.

Hollywood said: ‘I’m a genuine fan of Matt’s, it is such great news he will be joining us in the tent, he’s a fantastic addition to the team."

And Leith added: ‘The combination of Matt Lucas and Noel Fielding! Will we stop laughing and get any filming done?’

And Channel 4’s director of programmes, Ian Katz, said: We’re thrilled that one much loved national institution is joining another. Matt has everything it takes to be a great Bake Off presenter: he’s warm, hilarious and loves cake.’

When Toksvig quit earlier in the year, she said: ‘When stepping down from a job it is quite common for people to say they are doing so in order to spend more time with their family.

‘Unusually I am departing from the Great British Bake Off so I can spend more time with my other work. As my waistline will testify, Bake Off is an all-consuming show.’

Filming for the 11th series of The Great British Bake Off begins this spring.

Published: 11 Mar 2020