Who might replace Sandi Toksvig as the new co-host on Bake Off? We explore the potential candidates
This week brought with it the sad news that the much loved Great British Bake Off presenter Sandi Toksvig is set to leave the show for good, after just over two years alongside her co-host Noel Fielding.
Comedy duo Noel and Sandi joined the show together in 2017, for its eighth season, and its very first time being broadcast on Channel 4, following its move from the BBC.
Since then, Sandi and Noel have become fan favourites, with viewers regularly tuning in for their witty banter together, and their light-hearted humour, and gentle reassurance towards the often nervous contestants.
So its with a heavy heart that we'll all say goodbye to Sandi on the show, as she steps back to focus on other work projects.
But of course, when anyone leaves a TV show, it begs the question - who could be their replacement? Speculation has already begun on social media, with many putting forward their hopes for their favourites. Of course, Channel 4 have not yet confirmed any rumours. So who will be Sandi Toksvig's replacement on Bake Off?
Sandi Toksvig's replacement: the main contenders
Nadiya Hussain
Former Bake Off winner Nadiya was one of the first names to be thrown into the hat to replace Sandi, given how well loved she is by the British public. Since winning the show, she's proven time and time again that audience love her, with her own range of BBC cooking shows and successful cook books. In fact, Ladbrokes have already suggested that Nadiya is the number one favourite to replace Sandi as one of the hosts at the moment!
Liam Charles
And another former GBBO contestant has also found their way on to the list of potential candidates to replace Sandi - Liam Charles, from series eight of the show.
GoodtoKnow Newsletter
Parenting advice, hot topics, best buys and family finance tips delivered straight to your inbox.
Liam starred on the first series of the show presented by Sandi and Noel, so likely already has a rapport with Noel, meaning they could work well as on-screen partners. He's also already a part of spin-off show The Junior Bake Off, as a judge, so starring as a co-host on the main show would arguably be an easy transition for him.
Liam has also proven popular with TV audiences, having hosted his own Channel 4 show, Liam Bakes, since leaving GBBO.
Jo Brand
Comedian Jo is also already part of the Bake Off world, hosting An Extra Slice, a spin-off show accompanying the main programme, dissecting all the goings-on each week. So she'd arguably be a logical choice to replace Sandi as a presenter.
Jo of course, has a wealth of experience presenting prime time shows too - so could she perhaps be the perfect person to step into Sandi's shoes?
MORE: Great British Bake Off contestants: Where are they now?
Sarah Millican
Perhaps somewhat surprisingly, Sarah Millican is right behind Nadiya in Ladbrokes odds for bagging the presenting gig. She's hosted plenty of shows throughout her career, has the right comedic tone needed to host the programme, and as a bonus, has even appeared on the celebrity version of The Great British Bake Off - so do you think she could be a good option to join Noel at the helm of the show?
Davina McCall
With some commentators predicting that Channel 4 might want a seasoned professional presenter to replace Sandi, Davina McCall's name appears to have been thrown into the ring. Although further down the list, Davina hold 14/1 odds of stepping in to host The Bake Off - and with her years of experience (The 100k Drop, Big Brother, Long Lost Family, etc.) - it makes a lot of sense. We reckon she'd be brilliant!
Mel and Sue
It's a wild card option, but some are still predicting that previous hosts Mel Giedroyc and Sue Perkins could be an option for Sandi's replacement on the show! Of course, the duo hosted the show during its first seven series on BBC One, so might they be open to returning?
MORE: Mary Berry’s best chocolate cake
Arguably, it's unlikely. The presenters confessed that they were "saddened" when the programme moved to Channel 4, stepping down immediately alongside Mary Berry, so it would perhaps be a strange time to return. Plus, the programme has changed and evolved since Mel and Sue's time, so going back might not even be on the pair's radar. And, not forgetting, there's only one spot to fill, meaning these two might not be the right option to stand next to Noel. We can only dream...
Who do you prefer? Cast your vote here
[apester id="5e21ce3f22b4010bb1b40d00"]
Other possibilities for Sandi Toksvig's replacement
Of course, whoever takes over will need to have the right chemistry and rapport with Noel Fielding, who is staying on as host following Sandi's resignation.
As such, many have claimed that Channel 4 may well hire a former screen partner of Noel's, to ensure a great on-screen relationship. Some have suggested Richard Ayoade, who has appeared alongside Noel many times, or maybe even Russell Brand, who Noel has teamed up for multiple times for the Big Fat Quiz of the Year.
How would be your favourite for Sandi Toksvig's replacement?
Amy is Senior Digital Writer across Woman & Home, GoodTo and Woman, writing about everything from celebrity news to health, fashion and beauty features. When she isn't obsessing over the latest dress drop from Marks & Spencer, you'll most likely find Amy out running, or with a cup of tea in hand ready to dive into a gripping new Netflix series.
-
Child benefit is finally going to be made fairer - here's what's changing and when
Child benefit is finally going to be made fairer - here's what's changing and when
By Sarah Handley Published
-
15 baby names parents love but 'don't feel cool enough' to use - would you choose one?
These baby names are a 'guilty pleasure' for parents
By Ellie Hutchings Published
-
CoComelon has been accused of being 'overstimulating' - the experts explain why it's ok to let your kid watch the popular cartoon
CoComelon is adored by kids around the world, but some experts have shared reasons they don't think children should be watching - we look at both sides of the argument.
By Lucy Wigley Published
-
The Boy and the Heron age rating: Is the Oscar winning anime movie for kids?
The Boy and the Heron age rating: As the Oscar winning anime picks up major accolades, parents are wondering whether it's suitable for young kids.
By Lucy Wigley Published
-
Got a kid who loves anime? Here are the 10 shows they’re probably watching, plus everything to know about the popular genre
Does your child love anime? From old favourites to brand new finds, you'll find some great suggestions for shows they can watch from our top ten list.
By Lucy Wigley Published
-
When is Bridgerton season 3 coming out? Everything we know about the next instalment
When is Bridgerton season 3 coming out? Here's everything we know about the third instalment, as the countdown to its arrival is on!
By Lucy Wigley Published
-
Is Wicked Little Letters a true story and what happened to Rose Gooding and her family?
Is Wicked Little Letters a true story and what happened to Rose Gooding? When Rose was suspected of sending obscene letters, an unbelievable tale unfolded.
By Lucy Wigley Published
-
Which MAFS couples have babies? Contestants from the UK and Australia series' who've welcomed children
Which MAFS couples have babies? We take a look at contestants from the UK and Australia series' who went on to hear the pitter patter of tiny feet.
By Lucy Wigley Published
-
Why I love watching the Gladiators reboot with my kids - from reminiscing about my own childhood to finding a connection with my family, it's about more than the nostalgia
Sharing the joy of Gladiators with my kids, has been one of the best moments of the year so far. Here's everything I love about watching the show with them.
By Lucy Wigley Published
-
Is Avatar: The Last Airbender for kids? What you need to know about the Netflix live action's age rating
Is Avatar: The Last Airbender for kids? Here's what you need to know about the live action version of the Nickelodeon animation, as it lands on Netflix.
By Lucy Wigley Published