Dame Prue Leith is leaving The Great British Bake Off

Dame Prue Leith is set to leave The Great British Bake Off after nearly a decade as a judge on the show.

The 86-year-old, who replaced Dame Mary Berry in 2017, said in a social media post that “now feels like the right time to step back”, describing the show as “a fabulous part of my life for the last nine years”.

“I have genuinely loved it and I’m sure I’ll miss working with my fellow judge Paul, Alison and Noel, and the teams at Love Productions and Channel 4,” she wrote.

Dame Prue also stepped down from Celebrity Bake Off in 2024.

Tributes followed from her co-stars. Noel Fielding called her “an actual national treasure”, praising her energy, humour and “colourful fabulousness”, while Alison Hammond said she would miss her. Paul Hollywood shared photos of the pair together, writing: “You’re the best, Prue!”

Former contestants also posted messages of thanks in the comments.

In a statement, Love Productions thanked Dame Prue for her “much-loved presence”, highlighting her expertise, encouragement of bakers and “innocent innuendos” that often reduced the tent to laughter.

Channel 4’s chief content officer Ian Katz said she had left “an indelible mark on the show and all its bakers”.

“We will miss her wry, gentle judgement but look forward to working with her on new projects.”

A replacement judge has not yet been announced. Dame Prue said she was looking forward to enjoying her summers.

“Whoever joins the team, I’m sure they’ll love it as much as I have. I feel very lucky to have been part of it.”