At a Glance
- Prue Leith will leave the judging panel after nine seasons.
- She announced her exit on Instagram on Jan. 21.
- Leith has judged over 400 challenges and will be 86.
- Why it matters: Her departure marks the end of a decade-long era for the show.
Prue Leith’s announcement on Instagram stunned fans and colleagues alike, ending an era that began in 2017 when she joined the show to replace Mary Berry.
A Long-Standing Legacy
Leith first appeared on the show in 2017, stepping into a role that had been held by the beloved Mary Berry. She joined fellow judge Paul Hollywood and, the same year, Noel Fielding became the host. In 2023, Alison Hammond joined the panel, completing a lineup that has become iconic.
Over nine seasons, Leith has judged more than 400 challenges, bringing her culinary expertise, bubbly personality, and colorful outfits to the tent. Her presence helped the show grow from a local competition into a global Netflix sensation.
The Decision
In a heartfelt Instagram post dated Jan. 21, Leith wrote, “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 added that the show has been a “fabulous part of my life for the last nine years” and that she will miss working with Paul, Alison, Noel, and the production teams.
Leith explained that at 86 years old she wants to spend summers in her garden and pursue other interests. She concluded, “But now feels like the right time to step back… there’s so much I’d like to do…”.
Reactions
Noel Fielding immediately paid tribute, calling Leith a “National Treasure” and praising her energy, humor, and colorful fabulousness. He wrote, “Your energy and humour and all round colourful fabulousness is something to behold! Gonna miss you…”
The show’s X account echoed the sentiment, thanking Leith for “nine brilliant years in the Tent” and wishing her well. The caption read, “From joyful judging to colourful fits to accidental innuendoes, you are simply the best and will be so missed.”
Former contestants also sent messages of admiration. 2018 champion Rahul Mandal wrote, “We will miss you so much. You are kind, funny, passionate and always inspired us. I want Deveshi to be like you, bold, brave and beautiful.” 2025 champion Jasmine Mitchell added, “Awwwww, Prue you’re amazing and we will miss you so very much xxx.”
A Career Beyond the Tent
Leith’s culinary credentials extend far beyond television. She has cooked for more than 60 years, helming a Michelin-starred restaurant in London from the late 1960s until the 1990s. She also served as a newspaper food columnist and has authored dozens of books, ranging from cookbooks to novels.
In 2022, she appeared on TODAY’s interview with Jenna Bush Hager and Hoda Kotb, discussing the show’s comforting appeal. Leith said, “I think it taps into some need for something comforting, kind, encouraging, actually nice.”
Looking Ahead
While the show has not yet named a replacement, fans and critics alike are eager to see who will step into Leith’s shoes. The panel’s chemistry has been a key factor in the show’s success, and the new judge will inherit a legacy of warmth, wit, and culinary expertise.
Leith’s departure also opens a window for fresh perspectives. The show’s producers have hinted that the new judge will bring a different style while maintaining the core values that fans love.
Key Takeaways
- Prue Leith is leaving after nine seasons, having judged over 400 challenges.
- She announced her decision on Jan. 21, citing age and a desire to pursue other interests.
- The show’s community, including hosts and former contestants, praised her impact.
- Leith’s career spans a Michelin-starred restaurant, column writing, and book publishing.
- The replacement has not been announced, leaving the future of the judging panel open to speculation.
