Noel Fielding has unveiled a heated confrontation with his ex-Great British Bake Off co-host Matt Lucas. The revelation came during the recording of the Stand Up To Cancer celebrity special in 2022, shedding light on the tumultuous dynamics behind the seemingly sweet surface of the popular baking show.
During a recent episode of the Off-Menu podcast with comedians Ed Gamble and James Acaster, Fielding spillt the details. “Yeah, and [Matt] was having a breakdown as well,” chuckled Fielding. “He told me to f*** off. Because I just came up and was laughing at him, and he was like: ‘Oh, f*** off.’ And then he went, ‘Oh, I’m really sorry, I’m just really stressed.’ I was like ‘Are you joking?’ but it really got to him. I think he felt extra pressure because he was supposed to be good or something.”
This comes as a surprise considering the generally harmonious partnership between the hosts during their three seasons together. Fielding, who has been a staple on the show since 2017, admitted that despite the challenges, their collaboration had its enjoyable moments.
Fielding reveals tension on the set of the Bake-Off
The dramatic incident occurred when Lucas, 49, had to step in as a contestant on short notice due to a celebrity dropout. The stress of the impromptu bake-off led to Lucas’s foul-mouthed tirade, leaving Fielding taken aback. Despite the heated exchange, the duo managed to maintain their professional rapport on-screen.
In a turn of events, Lucas left the show last year, allowing the vivacious Alison Hammond to join Fielding as co-host. Hammond quickly won over fans, becoming a fan favourite alongside Fielding.
Fielding, 50, has been steadfast in his refusal to participate in a celebrity special, revealing on the podcast that producers had persistently urged him to join in “as a joke.” However, he staunchly stood his ground, deeming it unfunny.
The chemistry between Fielding and Lucas, both known for their double-act dynamics, was described as “weird” and “difficult” by Fielding. Finding a working dynamic between the two, with their similar roles in their respective partnerships (Lucas with David Walliams, Fielding with Julian Barratt), proved challenging but ultimately successful.
Lucas decided to leave show after three years
The departure of Lucas did not dampen the show’s popularity, as Hammond seamlessly stepped into the co-host role. The Great Celebrity Bake Off for Stand Up To Cancer, set to air later this year, promises a star-studded lineup, including Danny Dyer, Jodie Whittaker, and Mel B.
Despite the backstage drama, The Great British Bake Off remains a beloved show, with fans eagerly awaiting the upcoming series. The next season is anticipated to air in September, continuing to deliver delicious drama and delightful bakes.