Matt Lucas QUITS as presenter of The Great British Bake Off

Three years after he joined, comedian Matt Lucas has revealed he's quit his presenting role on hit Channel 4 show The Great British Bake Off.

Matt, who co-hosted GBBO alongside Noel Fielding, took to social media to share an emotional statement to say farewell to the show, admitting he's too busy with other work commitments.

The 48-year-old told fans: 'Farewell Bake Off! It's been a delicious experience and I can't imagine a more fun way of spending my summers. But it's become clear to me that I can't present both Fantasy Football League and Bake Off alongside all my other projects.

'So, after three series and 51 episodes, I am cheerfully passing the baguette on to someone else.' (sic)

Matt went on to thank his Bake Off co-host and judges Prue Leith and Paul Hollywood, saying: 'I would like to give my warmest thanks and gratitude to everyone at Love Productions and Channel 4 and to Noelipops, Paul, Dame Prue, the crew and, of course, the wonderful bakers for welcoming me into the tent.

'I wish whoever takes over the very best and I can't wait to tune into the next series without already knowing who won!' (sic)

Co-host Noel was quick to express his sadness at the news, writing: 'I will miss your big smile and your sense of fun and silliness. I will miss our writing days in that ridiculous room with the high ceilings and I will miss us giggling like naughty schoolboys when Paul says 'eggy' in his Scouse accent.

'You were so lovely to work with and so kind to the bakers. Have fun on your next adventure.'

Bake Off bosses also paid tribute to Matt's time on the show, writing: 'We've loved having Matt Lucas brighten up our Tent for the last three years, especially when laughter and smiles were so much in need. We appreciate everything he's done for Bake Off, from working in covid bubbles to being a constant source of support for the bakers. It's been an absolute pleasure - thank you @realmattlucas. ❤️'. (sic)

At the time of publication, Channel 4 are yet to confirm who will replace Matt.

When the show aired on BBC One, Mel Giedroyc and Sue Perkins hosted the show for a massive seven series, before Noel Fielding and Sandi Toksvig took over for the move to Channel 4.

After Sandi's exit, Matt then took over for series 11, 12 and 13.

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It's understood Matt has already filmed The Great British Bake Off Christmas special, which is due to air in the coming weeks.

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