“Farewell Bake Off!” Lucas tweeted. “It’s been a delicious experience and I can’t imagine a more fun way to spend 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. So, after three [seasons] and 51 episodes, I am cheerfully passing the baguette on to someone else.” Comedian Lucas added, “I would like to give my warmest thanks and gratitude to everyone at Love Productions and Channel 4 and to [Noel], Paul, Dame Prue, the crew and, of course, the wonderful bakers for welcoming me into the tent. I wish whoever takes over all the very best and I can’t wait to tune into the next series without already knowing who won!” Lucas joined The Great British Bakeoff in season 11. Love Productions, which makes The Great British Baking Show, said in a statement, “We’ve loved having Matt Lucas brighten up our tent for the last three years, especially when laughter and smiles were so much in need. We appreciate everything he’s done for Bake Off, from working in Covid bubbles to supporting the bakers. It’s been a pleasure - thanks Matt.” Judge Paul Hollywood thanked Lucas for “bringing so much laughter and fun to the tent.” Co-host Noel Fielding wished Lucas well, writing, “I will miss your big smile and your sense of fun and silliness. I will miss our writing days in that ridiculous room with the high ceilings and I will miss us giggling like naughty school boys when Paul says ’eggy’ in his Scouse accent. You were so lovely to work with and so kind to the bakers. Have fun on your next adventure.” A replacement for Lucas has not yet been publicly announced. Next, check out Netflix’s new Christmas movies for 2022.
