Great British Bake Off 2026 unveils first look as Nigella Lawson joins as judge

A first look image has been revealed for The Great British Bake Off, giving us our first glimpse of the new-look presenting team including Nigella Lawson.

Lawson joins the show as a judge, replacing Prue Leith whose departure from the show was announced at the start of the year. She will be joining returning judge Paul Hollywood, and returning presenters Alison Hammond and Noel Fielding.

The first look image, which was taken on the very first day of filming and Lawson's first ever day in the Bake Off tent, shows the four of them against a pink backdrop, and can be seen below.

Alongside the release of the image by Channel 4 and production company Love Productions, it has been confirmed that filming has now been completed, and that the show will return next month, in September.

Lawson has been said to bring her "trademark warmth, wit and passion for flavour to the tent", complimenting Hollywood's "famously exacting eye for a great bake".

Hammond previously teased the chemistry between Lawson and Hollywood, saying on Lorraine back in May: "Obviously we’ve started [filming], so I’ve been watching. I’m telling you, the chemistry between her and Paul is unbelievable."

She added: "Honestly, they’re so good together. Because I’ll be honest with you, they don’t always agree, and it’s so good!"

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When Lawson's new role on the series was announced, she said in a statement: "Of course it’s daunting to be following in the footsteps of Prue Leith and Mary Berry before her, great dames both, but I’m also bubbling with excitement. The Great British Bake Off is more than a television programme, it’s a National Treasure – and it’s a huge honour to be entrusted with it.

"I’m just thrilled to be joining the team and all the new bakers to come, I wish the marvellous Prue all the best, and am giddily grateful for the opportunity!"

The Great British Bake Off will return in September 2026.

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Authors

James Hibbs is a Drama Writer for Radio Times, covering programmes across both streaming platforms and linear channels. He previously worked in PR, first for a B2B agency and subsequently for international TV production company Fremantle. He possesses a BA in English and Theatre Studies and an NCTJ Level 5 Diploma in Journalism.