With everyone debating whether Channel 4 can possibly replicate the success of ‘Great British Bake Off’ when it finds its new home from next year, the future is even more uncertain for its companion show ‘An Extra Slice’.
Jo Brand, who presents the programme chewing on the events of each week, along with guest bakers and other stars, has spoken out this morning, but it seems she’s as much in the dark as the viewers.
She told Lorraine Kelly and her viewers this morning: “I’ve no idea. I honestly, I can say no-one’s said anything to me, so I don’t know anything.”
This week has seen Mary Berry follow hosts Mel and Sue in quitting the show, voicing her loyalty for the BBC, and it seems this move has Jo’s full support.
She joked: “I don’t blame Mary, she probably wants to put her feet up. I mean I’m 20 years younger and I’d quite like to put my feet up. She’s amazing.”
On what she thinks Mary will do next, Jo said: “I’d like to think she will come round my house and bake exclusively for me.”
Jo spoke out on the same day it was revealed the BBC is planning a new rival baking show, rumoured to be starring Mel and Sue, Mary and possibly Nadiya Hussain. This will not be music to Channel 4’s ears, who have this week secured only Paul Hollywood to remain in place in the ‘Bake Off’ tent as it sets about recreating the top-rating show in its new home.
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She was also named the bookies' favourite, more or less as soon as Mel and Sue announced they were stepping down.
On Twitter, hers is the name we keep seeing crop up time and time again, either from people crying out for her to get the job, or pleading with Channel 4 not to give it to her.
In our opinion, it would be a bit too obvious, though, but we'd definitely be in favour of her forming a new double act with runner-up Tamal, with whom she got along like a house on fire in their days on 'GBBO'.
Like Nadiya, he too has managed to bag himself a career in TV, so we wouldn't be surprised if the offer fell at his feet either.
Julian is the undisputed king of innuendo, and his soft-spoken style lends itself perfectly to the 'Bake Off' tent.
He's also become a dab hand at light entertainment since his 'CBB' days, appearing on the panel of 'Your Face Sounds Familiar', as well as fronting 'Nature Nuts' and appearing on 'Give A Dog A Home'.
Hmmm.... maybe not.
Emma must be so stressed out interviewing the stars of 'Celebrity Big Brother' twice a year that we'd be quite happy for her to land a presenting gig that's a bit more... calming.