Prue Leith, the beloved judge of the Great British Bake Off, has officially stepped away from her role on the Celebrity version of the show, handing the reins to her longtime friend and esteemed chef, Caroline Waldegrave. This change, effective from the start of the Stand Up to Cancer special, premiered on Channel 4 on March 16, 2025, offering viewers both humor and some heartfelt moments.
At 84 years old, Leith decided it was time to step back from the demanding filming schedule, which typically runs continuously from April to August. "These things are filmed back-to-back all the way through summer from April to August, so you don’t get any time off. I’m getting quite old, and there are places I want to see. So I’m not doing this year’s," she expressed prior to her departure, highlighting her desire to travel and avoid the rigors of filming.
Taking her place this season, Waldegrave, also known as Lady Waldegrave of North Hill, debuted as the new judge under somewhat nerve-wracking circumstances. "I was completely terrified," Caroline admitted. Fortunately, the warm welcome from production staff helped assuage her fears. She recalled arriving at her designated shepherd’s hut to find signs and flowers celebrating her arrival. "The mood is very light on set," she remarked, noting the supportive environment as she adjusted to her new role alongside Paul Hollywood.
Waldegrave brings significant culinary prowess to the table, having served as the principal of the renowned Leiths School of Food and Wine from 1975 to 2002. Her accomplishments earned her the prestigious OBE for her contributions to the UK catering industry. Beyond her academic career, she has co-authored several influential cookbooks and is no stranger to television, appearing on shows like Chef School and MasterChef, making her well-suited for her new judging role.
Fans of the Bake Off franchise were treated to celebrity contestants including Chris Ramsey, Scarlette Douglas, and many others, who faced off on the first episode. Each contestant was tasked with creating classic scones and showstopper cakes celebrating personal career highlights. Scarlette Douglas opted for a palm tree-shaped cake symbolizing her time on I’m A Celebrity, showcasing her bubbly personality. Meanwhile, Stuart Douglas paid tribute to his brief stint as a footballer with a house-shaped carrot cake, which left some viewers bemused at the choice.
Chris and Rosie Ramsey presented their own take by crafting cakes commemorative of their record-breaking live podcast performance at the O2, amusingly reflective of their comedy careers. Chris’s contribution, a replica of their Guinness World Records certificate for ticket sales, garnered laughs, though some fans may have wished for more creative risk-taking.
Throughout the episode, Caroline's judgments occasionally drew more scrutiny than she might have anticipated, including her critique of Chris Ramsey’s chocolate finger biscuits which she described as "a bit flat.” While this statement certainly raised eyebrows, it showcased her straightforwardness as she settles comfortably behind the judge's desk.
Throughout her debut commentary, Caroline maintained Prue's essence, adding her touch with thoughtful critiques, much to the delight of onlookers. "Caroline is perfect! The kindest, and most knowledgeable teacher, the bakers will love her," Prue herself endorsed, reassuring fans of the Bake Off legacy. Such endorsements not only highlight the bond between the two chefs but also build anticipation for Waldegrave's contributions.
The atmosphere during the show remained lighthearted, thanks to returning hosts Noel Fielding and Alison Hammond, who expertly navigated the mix of competition and comradery among the celebrity bakers. Their rapport helped sustain the playful spirit of the show, contributing to the overall enjoyment for viewers tuning in to support Stand Up to Cancer.
Despite the shifts occurring behind the scenes, the overall reception remained optimistic, albeit with some preference for the familiar face of Prue Leith. The celebrity edition’s formula promises to diversify challenges and yield laughs, though viewers might continue contrasting this season’s performances with those of last year. With many episodes left to air until April 13, 2025, the baking tent seems poised for more delightful disasters and possibly inspiring triumphs.
With the mix of renowned celebrities and Waldegrave easing her way onto the judging panel, the CGBO is expected to keep audiences engaged over the coming weeks. Each challenge presented not only serves as entertainment but simultaneously supports important charitable efforts, making the stakes pure and commendable at the show’s core. Tune in to see how Waldegrave evolves as she settles ever more as the new face of the Bake Off tent!
