The highly anticipated Celebrity Bake Off is set to return this spring, featuring a fresh lineup of famous faces and a new judge in the tent. This special series aims to raise funds and awareness for Stand Up To Cancer, a joint initiative with Cancer Research UK. The show will see celebrities share personal stories related to cancer while competing for the coveted Star Baker title. A notable change this year includes the replacement of judge Prue Leith with Caroline Waldegrave, a respected figure in the culinary world.
Caroline Waldegrave brings a wealth of experience to the judging panel, having been involved in the food industry for many years. Meanwhile, the celebrity bakers have their own compelling reasons for participating, from personal health battles to honoring loved ones affected by cancer. The show promises not only delightful baking but also touching moments that highlight the importance of supporting those impacted by cancer.
A New Face on the Judging Panel
This year marks a significant change as Caroline Waldegrave takes over the role of judge from Prue Leith. Waldegrave's extensive background in culinary arts makes her an ideal choice for this important position. Her involvement adds a fresh perspective to the competition, ensuring that the standards remain high while bringing new insights into the judging process.
Leith's decision to step back from the celebrity spin-off was announced last March, citing the demanding filming schedule as one of the main reasons. She had been a part of the Bake Off family since 2017, taking over from Mary Berry when the show moved to Channel 4. Despite her departure, Leith remains committed to the main show. Waldegrave, a long-time friend and colleague of Leith, brings her expertise as the former co-owner and managing director of Leiths School of Food & Wine. Her presence is expected to bring a unique blend of professionalism and warmth to the judging panel. The transition ensures continuity while introducing exciting changes to the format.
Star-Studded Lineup with Heartfelt Stories
The 2025 Celebrity Bake Off features a diverse and talented group of contestants, each bringing their own story to the tent. From broadcasters and actors to comedians and musicians, the lineup showcases a wide range of personalities who are passionate about baking and supporting a worthy cause. Each contestant has a personal connection to cancer, adding depth and emotion to the competition.
Sarah Beeny, a broadcaster known for her documentary on battling breast cancer, joins the contest alongside Gloria Hunniford, a tireless campaigner who lost her daughter Caron Keating to breast cancer. Kate Garraway, recognized for her documentaries on caregiving, and actors Maxine Peake, Meera Syal, and Sophie Willan add star power to the mix. Other notable participants include Radio DJ Roman Kemp, singer Self Esteem (Rebecca Lucy Taylor), and comedian Chris Ramsey, who competes with his wife Rosie. The show also welcomes Scarlette Douglas, along with her brother Stuart, Amelia Dimoldenberg, Gbemisola Ikumelo, Ellie Goldstein, Adam Buxton, Jamali Maddix, Phil Wang, and Tommy Tiernan. Hosted by Alison Hammond and Noel Fielding, the series promises to be both entertaining and inspiring.