Jennifer Saunders has spoken out to deny reports she and Dawn French are being lined up to replace Mel and Sue on ‘The Great British Bake Off’.
The comedy duo were said to be top of producers’ wish lists to front the baking show when it moves to Channel 4 next year, in a story published by The Sun.
However, ‘Absolutely Fabulous’ star Jennifer has now addressed the claims on Twitter, writing:
The Sun’s story has also claimed Delia Smith was also being eyed as a potential replacement for Mary Berry, with a source told the paper: “The pressure is now on to sign up the best team possible for the show when it makes its debut on Channel 4.
A Channel 4 spokesperson played down speculation, adding: “We are taking our time to find the right presenters and judges for ‘Bake Off’. We have not approached anyone about the roles.”
Mel and Sue stepped down as hosts of ‘Bake Off’ when it was announced Channel 4 had poached the show from the BBC in a £75m deal.
Mary later announced her departure as a judge, while Paul Hollywood confirmed he will continue to judge the show on Channel 4.
Spice Girl Geri Horner and former winner Nadiya Hussain have also been linked to a presenting role, while Australian cook and writer Dan Lepard is said to be a contender for Mary’s job.
Davina McCall ruled herself out hosting the show after she was rumoured to be a potential replacement for Mel and Sue, as it would contradict her sugar-free lifestyle.
Mary recently broke her silence on her exit, telling reporters at the National Reality Television Awards: “I think it’ll be different, and, I’m sure, very successful. And Paul will carry them through.”
‘Bake Off’ is set to launch on Channel 4 in 2017 with a special celebrity edition for Stand Up To Cancer.
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