Fans’ fury as wacky Noel joins new Bake Off team
GREAT British Bake Off fans reacted angrily last night to the news that surreal comedian Noel Fielding will be a presenter on Channel 4’s version of the show.
Fielding will co-host with Sandi Toksvig, taking over from previous presenters Mel Giedroyc and Sue Perkins, while TV chef Prue Leith will replace the departed, but much-loved Mary Berry.
Fielding, 43, known for cult comedy series The Mighty Boosh and pop music panel show Never Mind The Buzzcocks, said: “GBBO is one of my favourite shows.
“I’ve always loved brightly-coloured cakes and Sandi Toksvig, so this is a dream come true for me.”
But angry viewers were not amused and took to Twitter to express their frustration.
One tweeted: “I won’t be watching the new Bake Off on C4. Judges fine, but presenters... disappointing.”
Another viewer wrote: “Did nobody learn anything from the Top Gear fiasco?!”
The new team joins judge Paul Hollywood in the iconic tent when the show returns on Channel 4 later this year. Hollywood, 51, said he “could not be more delighted” about the show’s newcomers.
He said: “Prue is a hugely respected culinary legend and Sandi and Noel are warm and hilarious. I cannot wait to get back in the tent with the bakers.”
Native South African Leith, 77, who was a judge on the BBC’s Great British Menu, said: “I am just so thrilled to be joining Paul, Sandi and Noel on the biggest show on TV. I cannot wait to see what the real stars of the show – the bakers – will create for us.”
Danish-born Toksvig, 58, who took over QI hosting duties from Stephen Fry last year, said she is honoured to be part of “this national treasure of a show”.
She added: “Noel Fielding is one of the nicest guys in showbusiness. The only down side is that he has better dress sense than I do.”
Jay Hunt, Channel 4’s chief creative officer, said: “Paul and Prue have huge amounts of expertise and warmth.
“Sandi and Noel bring a fresh wit and quirkiness to the tent.
“It’s just the sort of innovative line-up audiences expect from Channel 4.”