Nigella Lawson wins five-star reviews on Bake Off debut but leaves Alison Hammond 'uncomfortable' with nickname

From the Newshound archive · first published 22 September 2026 · last updated 24 September 2026.

Nigella Lawson, 66, made her debut as Dame Prue Leith's replacement on the 17th series of The Great British Bake Off on Tuesday night, earning unanimous five-star notices from critics who said she has breathed new life into the show. Alison Hammond described working alongside her as "unbelievable" and praised her as "so beautiful," yet confessed that being called "my bride" by Nigella leaves her feeling distinctly uncomfortable. Cake Week launched the new run, with Nigella's own chocolate stout cake set as the signature challenge, two major disasters unfolding, and her familiar innuendo much in evidence.

Critics said Nigella has "put Paul Hollywood firmly back in his cake box" after years of him dominating the judging dynamic.

Nigella declared herself in her "absolute dream" on arrival, telling bakers: 'If you are not the Picasso of patisserie, what I want is a bit of personality, some wit.'

Alison Hammond said of the nickname: 'I don't know how to tell her — it's not going to happen.'