Matt Lucas recently announced his departure from The Great British Baking Show after three seasons to the surprise of many, but he has a good reason for why he's chosen to step away from the popular program. The Great British Baking Show, known as The Great British Bake Off around the rest of the world, has captivated viewers since its debut back in 2010. Judged by Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith starting from The Great British Baking Show season 8, the wholesome and frequently hilarious competition features amateur bakers from the United Kingdom whose skills are evaluated each week until only one person remains.
While Paul and Prue's jobs are to judge the creations on The Great British Baking Show, Matt and co-host Noel Fielding are known as the series' comedic presenters who introduce challenges, establish time limits, and talk to the contestants as they work. Although The Great British Baking Show season 13's challenges were criticized by fans, Matt and Noel's natural banter continued to be a hit with the show's recent batch of amateur bakers. Despite Matt's growing exposure as a member of The Great British Baking Show, however, he recently explained why he has decided to step back from the exciting role.
Related: The Great British Bake Off: Wildest Facts About The Show
Matt Lucas Is Leaving GBBS To Focus On Other Projects
In a joint Twitter and Instagram statement, Matt explained that his time on The Great British Baking Show has come to an end so that he can focus on other opportunities. "It's become clear to me that I can't present both 'Fantasy Football League' and 'Bake Off' alongside all my other projects," Matt wrote. "I am cheerfully passing on the baguette on to someone else." Although the recent time limits on The Great British Baking Show haven't made viewers happy, Matt gave his thanks to the cast and crew involved with the series and expressed, "I wish whoever takes over all the best!"
How GBBS Co-Stars & Alum Are Reacting To Matt Lucas' Exit
Matt's co-stars and dozens of former contestants of The Great British Baking Show immediately shared their disappointment, but well wishes, on Instagram following Matt's announcement. Noel, who called Matt "a lovely man and a good friend," further wrote on Matt's post that he "totally respect[s] your decision." Paul commented, "I’m going to miss you Matt, and so will the bakers," while The Great British Baking Show season 11 winner Peter Sawkins wrote, "Thank you Matt! Loved sharing my time in the tent with you." Other alum who sent well-wishes include Hermine (GBBS season 11), Rahul Mandal (GBBS season 9 winner), and Crystelle Pereira (GBBS season 12).
Although Matt's hosting duties will be missed on future seasons of The Great British Baking Show, the popular show will continue to showcase new amateur bakers. While it's too early to tell who will replace Matt as Noel's right-hand co-host, fans are already throwing out prospective names they would like to see step up to the task, such as Joe Lycett and Matt Berry. In the meantime, viewers can continue to celebrate The Great British Bake Off season 13 winner Syabira Yusoff's recent victory until more news is released.
More: Why The Skill Level On The Great British Baking Show Is Now So High
Source: Matt Lucas/Instagram, Noel Fielding/Instagram
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