Paul Hollywood has signed a deal to continue judging on ‘Great British Bake Off’, following its move to Channel 4.
The news comes following a statement from Mary Berry, in which she explained her decision to quit the show and stick with the BBC.
Love Productions announced the news on Thursday (22 September), with Paul later issuing a lengthly statement on his decision.
In the statement, he thanks the BBC, as well as presenters Mel and Sue, but there is noticeably no mention of his fellow judge.
“Since I was a kid, baking has been part of my life,” it reads. “The seven series inside the tent have created some great memories.
“Best of all, I have felt so pleased to experience other people getting the baking bug, just as I did when my dad helped me make my first loaf.
“‘The Great British Bake Off’ has brought baking to the nation and we’ve seen people from all walks of life and backgrounds, experience the highs and lows of competition, and more importantly helping each other.
“It’s been a huge part of my life in the past few years and I just couldn’t turn my back on all that – the bakers themselves, the bakes, the team that makes it, and of course the tent, the bunting, and who could forget… the squirrels.
“So I am delighted that I will be continuing as a judge when ‘Bake Off’ moves to Channel 4. I want to thank the BBC and Mel and Sue for making my time in the tent great fun and really rewarding.”
Within an hour of the statement’s release, Paul rectified the matter on Twitter:
He later issued a second statement, insisting: “When I spoke about my news earlier on, I did not know what Mary was saying about her decision, and more importantly had not been able to speak to her.
“Let there be no doubt: I have loved every minute of my time working with Mary. I have learned so much from her and we are great friends inside and outside the tent. That will not change. Knowing her as well as I do, I am sure she has made the right decision for her. I will miss her.”
Shortly before the news was announced, pictures of Paul attending a secret meeting at Channel 4 were published online.
In the snaps, the baker could be seen making his way into the back entrance of the broadcaster’s London HQ, after waiting in a car for a chaperone.