The beloved series, The Great Celebrity Bake Off for Stand Up to Cancer, has returned with fresh excitement as Lady Caroline Waldegrave steps in as the new judge, taking over from Dame Prue Leith. Fans of the show were eager to see what the new series would bring, especially after Prue's announcement last year to take some much-needed time off. Welcoming Lady Waldegrave to the tent marks not just a shift in judges but also reflects the vibrant legacy of friendship and culinary passion forged between her and Prue over the decades.
Caroline, who is not new to the culinary scene, is the former co-owner and managing director of Leiths School of Food and Wine, holding the reins of the esteemed institution from 1975 to 2002. During her tenure, she helped shape the skills of many chefs, both professional and amateur, making her well-equipped for her new role. Originally from the Cotswolds, Caroline formed her bond with Prue when she joined Prue's catering business at only 20 years of age. Over the years, they collaborated on multiple cookbooks, including the renowned Leiths Cookery Bible, cementing their partnership both personally and professionally.
Lady Waldegrave officially made her debut as a judge on March 16, 2025, during the kickoff episode. She shared her apprehensions leading up to her first day, stating, \"I was completely terrified. Then, when I turned up, I went to the shepherd’s hut I was allotted and there were banners outside saying ‘Welcome!’ and flowers.\" This warm reception, along with the kindness from longtime judge Paul Hollywood and hosts Alison Hammond and Noel Fielding, helped ease her nerves. Caroline noted the atmosphere on set was light and filled with laughter, making her feel right at home.
Reflecting on their friendship, Prue described Caroline as the "naughtiest girl in school" during her formative years, illustrating the deep-rooted connections they share. Despite this playful jab, Prue admires Caroline's culinary talent and is thrilled to have her step up, assuring fans, \"Caroline is perfect! The kindest and most knowledgeable teacher, the bakers and viewers will love her.\" Prue, 85, made the decision to step back from the celebrity version of the Bake Off to enjoy more time to travel and recharge. She explained, \"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 will, thankfully, still return for the standard series, which airs later this year.
This year’s celebrity contestants have been met with much enthusiasm from fans. The opening episode featured personalities such as siblings Scarlette and Stuart Douglas and comedy couple Chris and Rosie Ramsey. The star-studded competition also includes figures like Kate Garraway, Roman Kemp, Sarah Beeny, and Amelia Dimoldenburg. Following the first round of baking, Comedian Chris was celebrated as the first Star Baker by Paul and Caroline.
Lady Caroline also took some time to share insights from her rich biography, which includes being awarded the OBE for her services to the UK catering industry. Married to William Waldegrave, who served as MP for Bristol West from 1979 to 1997, she is part of a politically significant family, now known as Baron Waldegrave of North Hill. Their union has produced four children, who continue to carry on the family legacy. Caroline’s contributions to culinary arts and education stem beyond just her role on the show; she has made numerous television appearances on shows like Chef School, Masterchef, and Tricks of the Trade.
Another beloved aspect of the series is the sense of community it fosters. Many viewers have taken to social media to express their excitement about Caroline’s arrival. One fan remarked, \"Oh what a wonderful choice!\" highlighting the positive reception among Bake Off enthusiasts. Following Prue’s footsteps will undoubtedly offer its challenges, yet the nostalgia and support from the audience are apparent and notable.
While there’s much excitement surrounding new dynamics within the Bake Off tent, recent changes are reflective of broader themes concerning work-life balance and self-care, especially as many viewers rally behind Prue's decision to take time away from the demanding filming schedule.
Caroline Waldegrave’s debut is more than just the introduction of another judge on The Great Celebrity Bake Off; it’s part of the culinary and television history she shares with Prue, the laughter and camaraderie among judges and hosts, and the love for baking manifesting through its celebrity participants. This year’s series promises to deliver not only exceptional baked goods but immense entertainment, as evidenced by the joyful atmosphere enveloping the show.
Viewers can catch The Great Celebrity Bake Off for Stand Up To Cancer every Sunday at 7:40 PM on Channel 4, with episodes running weekly until April 13, 2025. Fans can look forward to more laughter, culinary delights, and heartwarming moments as celebrities do their best to impress the new judge and continuation of the Bake Off tradition.
