The Great British Bake Off has captivated audiences not only with its delectable creations but also with its engaging presenters. Over the years, the show has featured a variety of hosts, each bringing their unique style and personality to the iconic tent.
From the original duo, Mel Giedroyc and Sue Perkins, to the more recent pairings, the presenters have played a crucial role in the show’s success.
Here are the details of The Great British Bake Off presenters, their backgrounds, and their contributions to the show.
1. Mel Giedroyc
Mel Giedroyc, born in 1968 in Epsom, Surrey, is a comedian and actress with a rich career in British entertainment. She rose to fame alongside Sue Perkins in the comedy duo Mel and Sue, performing on shows like Light Lunch.
Mel became the inaugural co-host of The Great British Bake Off in 2010, bringing her sharp wit and infectious energy. Her playful exchanges with contestants and knack for lightening tense moments made her a standout.
Mel co-hosted for seven seasons, leaving in 2016 when the show moved from the BBC to Channel 4, citing loyalty to its original home. Since then, Mel has been busy hosting The Generation Game and appearing on Taskmaster.
She has also written a memoir, From Here to Maternity, and remains a beloved figure in TV, often popping up in comedy panel shows.
2. Sue Perkins
Sue Perkins, born in 1969 in East Dulwich, London, is a comedian, writer, and broadcaster with a degree in English from Cambridge University.
She teamed up with Mel Giedroyc for years, building a comedy partnership that led to The Great British Bake Off in 2010.
Sue’s dry humor and empathetic style complemented Mel perfectly, making them a dynamic duo. She co-hosted until 2016 but left with Mel after the Channel 4 switch, unwilling to follow the show’s new path.
Post-Bake Off, Sue has explored travel, presenting with shows like The Ganges with Sue Perkins and written books, including her memoir Spectacles.
She is also a regular on the radio, hosting BBC Radio 4’s Just a Minute. Her sharp intellect keeps her in demand across the media.
3. Noel Fielding
Noel Fielding, born in 1973 in London, is a comedian, actor, and artist known for his surreal humor. He co-created The Mighty Boosh and starred in Noel Fielding’s Luxury Comedy, establishing his quirky persona.
Noel joined The Great British Bake Off in 2017 as Channel 4 took over, initially co-hosting with Sandi Toksvig. His eccentric style, wild outfits, and offbeat remarks brought a fresh vibe to the tent.
Noel Fielding has remained a constant presence, later pairing with Matt Lucas and Alison Hammond. Noel never left the show and continues to host as of 2025, delighting fans with his unpredictable charm.
Outside Bake Off, he paints, performs stand-up, and occasionally acts, including a role in The Completely Made-Up Adventures of Dick Turpin. His creative energy keeps him a standout.
4. Sandi Toksvig
Sandi Toksvig, born in 1958 in Copenhagen, Denmark, is a writer, comedian, and broadcaster with a sharp mind. She studied at Cambridge, where she began her comedy career, later hosting The News Quiz on BBC Radio 4.
Sandi joined The Great British Bake Off in 2017 alongside Noel Fielding, offering a calm, witty counterpoint to his chaos. Her intelligence endeared her to viewers during her three-year run.
Sandi Toksvig left the show in 2020 after Season 10, wanting to focus on writing and other TV projects.
Since departing, Sandi has hosted QI, written novels like The Tricky Business of Love, and campaigned for women’s rights. Her departure was amicable, and she remains respected in British media.
5. Matt Lucas
Born in 1974 in London, Matt Lucas is a comedian and actor best known for Little Britain and Come Fly with Me. He trained at the National Youth Theatre and broke out with his partnership with David Walliams.
Matt joined The Great British Bake Off in 2020, replacing Sandi Toksvig and co-hosting with Noel Fielding. His goofy character impressions and big personality injected fun into the tent.
He stayed for three seasons, leaving in 2022 after Season 13 to pursue other work, including co-hosting the Fantasy Football League.
Since exiting, Matt has acted in films like Wonka and written a musical based on The Enormous Crocodile. His time on Bake Off showcased his versatility; he is thriving in comedy and beyond.
6. Alison Hammond
Alison Hammond, born in 1975 in Birmingham, is a TV personality who first appeared on Big Brother in 2002. She built a career on This Morning, winning fans with her bubbly charm and hearty laugh.
Alison joined The Great British Bake Off in 2023, taking over from Matt Lucas to co-host with Noel Fielding. Her down-to-earth nature and genuine support for contestants refreshed the show’s dynamic.
As of March 2025, she still hosts, bringing joy to the tent in her second season. Beyond Bake Off, Alison continues on This Morning, hosts For the Love of Dogs, and has acted in shows like Hollyoaks. Her warmth and relatability have made her a perfect fit for the show.