Matt Lucas has announced he’s stepping down from his role as a presenter on The Great British Bake Off, explaining his reasoning for quitting the job.
In a statement published on social media, the comedian explained that he had found it difficult to balance multiple commitments, including his Bake Off post.
The 48-year-old wrote: ‘xxx Farewell Bake Off! It’s been a delicious experience and I can’t imagine a more fun way of spending 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 series and 51 episodes, I am cheerfully passing the baguette on to someone else.’
Matt expressed his ‘warmest thanks and gratitude to everyone at Love Productions and Channel 4’, before adding tributes to his co-host Noel Fielding and judges Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith.
‘To Noelipops, Paul, Dame Prue, the crew and, of course, the wonderful bakers for welcoming me into the tent,’ he said.
Bake Off star Janusz, one of the fan favourites of the 2022 series, wrote: ‘You are loved! Such a honour to be part of bake off with you! Sending you big hug.’
Noel wrote a lengthy comment in homage to his friend, writing: ‘Totally respect your decision matt ! But I will miss your spark in the tent and I will miss you channeling other characters at the drop of a hat like your brilliant Boris Johnson.
‘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 naughtby school boys when Paul says “Eggy” in his Scouse accent.’
The Mighty Boosh star continued: ‘You were so lovely to work with and so kind to the bakers. Have fun on your next adventure and remember ” It’s all about the show stopper ” 😂 x x x.
‘Was a pleasure for me to work with such a wonderfully comic talent and a lovely man to boot xx Look forward to your next adventures as a friend and a fan x.’
Kim-Joy, who was on Bake Off in 2018, wrote: ‘I loved having you around on the new year episode! You put me at ease! You will be missed on bake off.
‘Enjoy all your new adventures, I’m sure it will all be great. Maybe I’ll have to start watching the fantasy football.’
Fellow former contestant Crystelle added: ‘MATT!!!! You were an absolute joy to work with – and made us feel so comfortable on screen. Will really miss you and our banter.’
Doctor Who’s Russell T Davies also said: ‘Oh job well done!’ adding a kiss and heart emoji to his supportive message.
The Great British Bake Off is available to watch on All 4.
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