Former Great British Bake Off host Sandi Toksvig has disclosed that she hasn’t spoken to any member of the show’s crew since her departure in 2019. Speaking exclusively to Radio Times, the 65-year-old comedian was quite open. She said: “To be honest, I left Bake Off because I stopped having fun. I was literally standing there watching meringues dry and thinking, ‘Oh my god, my brain is atrophying.’ So after three years, I thought, ‘That’ll do, go and do something else!’.”
Sandi Toksvig’s decision to step away from the iconic baking show came as a shock to fans who adored her chemistry with co-host Noel Fielding. Despite the seemingly sweet nature of Bake Off, the comedian confessed that the joy had evaporated for her, and she felt compelled to seek fresh challenges.
“I’m in love with the business to think, ‘OK, that’s a nice pay cheque, but it doesn’t work for me. I’ll move on and do something else,” she candidly remarked, emphasising her commitment to personal fulfilment over financial gain.
Sandi Toksvig Has Big Plans For The Future
In an earlier statement about her departure, Toksvig expressed her desire to spend more time on her other endeavours. However, her recent revelation sheds light on the underlying dissatisfaction that prompted her exit. She admitted to no longer tuning in to the show, stating, “I don’t like cake. But if somebody makes The Great British Cheese Off, I’m in.”
The Great British Bake Off, a culinary phenomenon, has a rich history of captivating audiences since its inception. The show, originally on BBC before transitioning to Channel 4, has become a cultural mainstay, attracting millions of viewers each week. Sandi Toksvig, along with Noel Fielding, was part of the hosting duo that endeared themselves to fans, bringing humour and warmth to the tent.
Last year saw Alison Hammond stepping into Toksvig’s shoes as the show’s co-host alongside Noel Fielding. The new pairing received positive feedback from both viewers and critics, ensuring the continued success of the beloved baking competition.
As Sandi Toksvig bids adieu to Bake Off, she reflects on her current role as the host of QI, a quiz show she took over from Stephen Fry in 2016. Commenting on her sustained enthusiasm for QI, she remarked, “I hope QI will be one of my legacy projects.” The seasoned presenter, whose father hosted Mastermind on Danish television, advocates for diversity in quiz show hosting. Sandi has recently expressed a desire to see more women at the forefront.
In her parting words, Toksvig remains unapologetic about her decision to leave Bake Off. “Being the quizmaster, between you and me, is the easiest job in the world because they tell you the answers beforehand,” she cheekily adds.