TV

Matt Lucas announced as new Great British Bake Off co-host

The new series returns this summer

Matt Lucas will replace Sandi Toksvig on The Great British Bake Off.

The former Little Britain star has been confirmed as the new co-host for Channel 4’s baking competition alongside Noel Fielding, while Prue Leith and Paul Hollywood will be back as judges.

In a statement, Matt said: “I’m chuffed to bits to be joining the most delicious show on television. I can’t wait to break bread with Noel, Prue and Paul and meet the brilliant bakers.

Matt said he’s “chuffed to bits” over co-hosting Bake Off (Credit: WENN.com)

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“And bearing in mind my love of cake, I’ve already ordered some much larger trousers in anticipation. See you in the tent!”

The 46-year-old actor’s appointment has gone down very well with his new co-stars, with Noel comparing their pairing to clay stop-motion duo Chas and Morph.

I’m chuffed to bits to be joining the most delicious show on television.

Noel said: “I love Matt. I love his warmth and his comedy and his big joyful smile. I think if we play our cards right we could become the next Chas and Morph.”

Bake Off mainstay Paul added: “I’m a genuine fan of Matt’s, it is such great news he will be joining us in the tent, he’s a fantastic addition to the team.”

And his fellow judge Prue joked the team might struggle to get any work done thanks to the new presenting team.

She commented: “The combination of Matt Lucas and Noel Fielding! Will we stop laughing and get any filming done?”

Channel 4 are also excited to have Matt on board.

The network’s director of programmes, Ian Katz, said: “We’re thrilled that one much loved national institution is joining another.

“Matt has everything it takes to be a great Bake Off presenter: he’s warm, hilarious and loves cake.”

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Fans were thrilled by the news with one person tweeting: “You’ll be BRILLIANT. What a superb choice.”

Another wrote: “Wow!!!! AMAZING! Congratulations,” while a third added: “Hurray, well done, so glad to see you will be back on the telly. Have fun!”

However, others weren’t keen on him joining the show.

One said: “I’m trying to do this thing where, if I don’t like something, I won’t comment on it. But I’m drawing the line at Matt Lucas hosting Bake Off.”

Another wrote: “Don’t know if I will watch this anymore.”

https://twitter.com/staysickcrybaby/status/1237696137047560193

A third tweeted: “Whaaaaaaaaaat?!?! Matt Lucas isn’t remotely interesting, funny and his voice is super annoying. Not a great choice tbf.”

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