Prue Leith announced that she is leaving the hit series The Great British Bake Off after nine seasons.
The beloved judge who brought warmth, wit and culinary experience joined the show in 2017.
He appeared alongside Paul Hollywood after the show moved from the BBC to Channel 4.
Over the years, she became a fan favorite, known for her sharp critiques delivered with kindness and her signature colorful style.
In her statement shared on Instagram on Wednesday, Leith expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to be part of the Bake Off family.
“After nine series and judging over 400 challenges, I have decided to step down as a judge on The Great British Bake Off,” Leith began his post.
“Bake Off has been a fabulous part of my life for the last nine years, I have really loved it and I am sure I will miss working with my fellow judges Paul, Alison and Noel, and the teams at Love Productions and Channel 4.”
The 86-year-old shared that she “now feels like it’s the right time to step back.”
“There are so many things I would like to do, including spending summers enjoying my garden,” he added. “Whoever joins the team, I’m sure they’ll love it as much as I do. I feel very lucky to have been a part of it.”
Fans have already taken to social media to share heartfelt tributes, praising Leith’s warmth and humor and expressing sadness at his departure.
For many, her presence was integral to the show’s charm, making her departure a bittersweet moment in Bake Off history.
Fans and past contestants alike sent messages of love.
2018 winner Rahul Mandal commented: “You will be greatly missed. It was a joy and a privilege to be in the tent with you. You are kind, funny, passionate and you always inspire us.”
Bake Off winner 2025 Jasmine Mitchell wrote: “Prue you are amazing and you will be sorely missed.”
