Wednesday, September 23, 2026 - Nigella Lawson has made her highly anticipated debut as a judge on The Great British Bake Off, and early reviews have been overwhelmingly positive. The 66-year-old chef joined Paul Hollywood in the famous Bake Off tent for the show’s new series, replacing Prue Leith.
Critics praised Lawson’s warmth, humour and distinctive approach to food as she quickly settled into the judging panel. Her relaxed presence and strong knowledge of food have added fresh energy to the programme.
Her first episode delivered plenty of drama as the new bakers tackled chocolate stout cake, coffee and walnut cake, and ambitious self-portrait showstoppers. Lawson’s relaxed personality was on full display as she encouraged contestants while closely examining their flavours and techniques.
The episode also produced an early baking disaster when Molly’s cake fell to the floor, adding the kind of tension and emotion viewers have come to expect from the competition. Mo ultimately emerged as the first Star Baker, while no contestant was eliminated in the opening week.
With Lawson now officially part of the line-up alongside Hollywood, Alison Hammond and Noel Fielding, attention is turning to what she will bring to the weeks ahead. The series premiered on Channel 4 in the UK on September 22, with the new season scheduled to arrive on Netflix internationally on September 25.
For Bake Off fans, the opening episode has already created plenty of interest, with Lawson bringing a fresh ingredient to one of television’s most recognisable baking competitions.
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