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You’ll never guess who turned down GBBO presenting job!

Noel Fielding apparently WASN'T producers' first choice.

So, finally, we all know the identity of the new Great British Bake off presenting team and it would seem the world is up in arms about it.

But it was never going to be easy to replace well-loved stars Mel and Sue or even Mary Berry!

Since the announcement yesterday that Noel Fielding and Sandi Toksvig are the new show hosts, everyone appears to have an opinion and a lot of venom has been directed at funny man Noel in particular.

Some have branded his kooky ways and warned that his dubious past – he’s been open about taking drugs in his yoof – will sully the reputation of the cosy, clean-cut show.

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“A lot of people at Love Productions are worried about what Channel 4 is going to do with their show,” a source has told the Sun.

“Noel is going to turn off a lot of the family viewing that made Bake Off such a favourite.

“But this is the risk of selling off a national treasure to the highest bidder.”

It has now emerged that, before the final line-up was revealed, various star names were offered the roles on the hugely successful show.

Among those approached by were Davina McCall, Dawn French and Jennifer Saunders – and Jamie Oliver declined the job because he thought the show would be “toxic” now it has left the BBC.

“Noel and Sandi are an odd combination and they certainly weren’t top of the list — or even 10th on the list,” a spy sniped.

“Channel 4’s most loyal presenters were not interested. There was talk that replacing Mel and Sue was a toxic proposition.”

Noel was apparently selected after The Last Leg co-presenter Josh Widdicombe turned down the job at the last minute.

Noel and Sandy will be joined on the new-look show alongside foodie legend Prue Leith, who replaces Mary Berry. Paul Hollywood is the only member of the BBC team who dared stick with the show after its controversial move to Channel 4.

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However, a Love Productions spokesman said the successful presenters were always in mind.: “Love Productions and Channel 4 jointly chose Sandi and Noel as presenters and they were the only pair an offer was made to.”


Christian Guiltenane
Freelance Writer

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