Nigella Lawson is a beloved UK food writer and TV personality known for her warm, approachable style and bestselling cookbooks. She has inspired countless home cooks with shows like Nigella Bites and Nigella Express.

Excitingly, in 2026, Nigella will join The Great British Bake Off as a new judge, bringing her charming expertise to this cherished baking competition. Fans are eager to see her add a fresh touch to the popular series.

🎂 Nigella Lawson Joins The Great British Bake Off

Nigella Lawson has been officially announced as the new judge for The Great British Bake Off, taking over from Prue Leith, who recently stepped down after nine wonderful years on the show. Nigella will be joining the familiar faces of Paul Hollywood, the continuing judge, along with hosts Noel Fielding and Alison Hammond.

This new judging panel will debut in Series 17, which is set to delight baking fans later in 2026. Nigella expressed her feelings about joining the celebrated show, saying she felt “uncharacteristically rather lost for words… but bubbling with excitement!”

It’s clear she is both thrilled and honoured to become part of the Bake Off family, recognising the show’s warm and creative spirit. Meanwhile, Prue Leith, who will be dearly missed, praised the selection of Nigella warmly, calling it a “brilliant choice” and wishing her all the best in the new role.

The announcement has been very well received across the UK, with many viewers excited to see Nigella’s signature charm and expertise added to the beloved series. Her wealth of culinary knowledge and warm personality promise to make her a perfect fit on this much-loved baking programme. [Source: The Guardian]

👩‍🍳 Transition and Legacy of Prue Leith

In January 2026, Prue Leith, after gracing The Great British Bake Off as a judge for nine seasons, announced her decision to step down, aged 86. She expressed a heartfelt wish to enjoy her summers more fully and take a well-earned step back from the show’s demanding schedule.

This marked the end of a significant and cherished chapter for the series, as Prue had become a familiar and much-loved presence. Channel 4 swiftly moved to secure a worthy successor, concluding negotiations within days.

By the end of January, Nigella Lawson was confirmed as the new judge, bringing her renowned culinary expertise and warm personality to the Bake Off tent. The quick succession was seen as an astute decision, maintaining the show’s momentum and cherished appeal.

Nigella’s appointment has been met with enthusiasm across the UK television industry, promising a vibrant new era for this beloved baking competition. [Source: The Guardian]

🌟 Nigella’s Warmth and the Bake Off Culture

Nigella Lawson has shared her thoughts on the special culture of The Great British Bake Off, praising how the show dodges the usual nasty competitive behaviour seen on other TV contests. She loves how it builds a warm and friendly community where people support each other while being creative together.

Nigella also says the show connects deeply with viewers, giving everyone a comforting, emotional experience. She chuckled about being a bit of a “ramshackle kind of baker,” feeling a bit clumsy but very excited to join the Bake Off family.

Her pleasant, down-to-earth spirit matches perfectly with the show’s lovely, inclusive vibe. Cooking fans and Bake Off lovers are surely thrilled to see her bring that warmth and humour to the judges’ tent next season. Source: Radio Times

📚 Nigella’s Culinary Career and Influence

Nigella Lawson is one of the UK’s most beloved food writers and TV cooks, known for her warm style and delicious recipes. She has written over a dozen bestselling cookbooks that many people love to cook from.

Nigella’s TV shows, such as Nigella Bites, Nigella Express, Nigellissima, and At My Table, made her a household name, showing off her easy and tasty cooking methods.

Besides her cookbooks and shows, Nigella has judged on several big international cooking competitions. She appeared as a judge on Top Chef, MasterChef Australia, The Taste, My Kitchen Rules, and MasterChef U.S., sharing her food wisdom with contestants.

In 2026, Nigella took a big step by joining The Great British Bake Off as a new judge, taking over from Prue Leith, which delighted baking fans all across the UK. Source: The Guardian, Source: Variety

🎉 Fan and Industry Reactions to Nigella’s Appointment

Nigella Lawson is joining The Great British Bake Off as a brand-new judge in Series 17, airing later in 2026. She’s taking over from Prue Leith, who has been a judge for nine seasons and recently stepped down.

Nigella is very excited about this big chance, and fans all across the UK have reacted with joy and excitement. Many baking lovers say that choosing Nigella is one of the best casting decisions the show has made in years.

They love her warm and friendly style as well as her huge cooking knowledge. Nigella’s long career as a famous cook and food writer makes her perfect for the Bake Off team.

Viewers can’t wait to see her share her thoughts and tips on the delicious bakes. The buzz online is full of hope and happiness for the new series.

Everyone is looking forward to seeing Nigella join Paul Hollywood, Noel Fielding, and Alison Hammond for what promises to be a brilliant season of baking fun. Source: The Guardian

💖 Nigella’s Impact on British Food Culture

Nigella Lawson’s new role as a judge on The Great British Bake Off has been warmly welcomed by fans and critics alike. Her charm, warmth, and rich experience add a special flavour to the show, continuing her significant contribution to British food culture.

Viewers eagerly anticipate the 2026 series, confident that Nigella’s unique style and culinary wisdom will make every episode a delightful treat. Her presence truly enriches this beloved baking tradition.

Sources

1. Delish – Nigella Lawson Great British Bake Off Judge
2. The Guardian – Nigella Lawson Confirmed as New Great British Bake Off Judge
3. Radio Times – Nigella Lawson Bake Off Judge Verdict Newsupdate
4. Variety – Great British Bake Off New Judge Nigella Lawson Replace Prue Leith
5. TV Insider – Nigella Lawson Prue Leith Reported Great British Baking Show Replacement