Prue Leith, a judge on the Channel 4 baking competition The Great British Bake Off, has announced her departure after nine series. The 86-year-old chef cited a desire to pursue other interests, including enjoying her garden. No replacement has been named yet.
Prue Leith joined The Great British Bake Off in 2017, replacing Mary Berry and teaming up with fellow judge Paul Hollywood to evaluate contestants' baked goods. Over her tenure, she judged more than 400 challenges on the show, which is produced by Love Productions for Channel 4. The current hosts are Alison Hammond, who started in 2023, and Noel Fielding, who has been presenting since 2017.
Leith shared her decision in an Instagram post on January 21, 2026, stating: “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 reflected fondly on her time, adding: “‘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. 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. 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.”
This follows her exit from the celebrity edition of the show in 2024, where she was succeeded by Caroline Waldegrave. Former contestants expressed appreciation in the comments. 2018 winner Rahul Mandal wrote: “We will miss you so much. It was a joy and privilege to be in the tent with you. You are kind, funny passionate and always inspired us.” Last year's winner Jasmine Mitchell added: “You’re amazing and we will miss you so very much.”
Leith's departure marks the end of an era for the beloved series, which has built a loyal following since its Channel 4 debut.
