Paul Hollywood will continue as a judge on The Great British Bake Off when the show moves to Channel 4. In a statement, the 50-year-old confirmed the news, saying that he was "delighted" to be staying on the baking competition. "It's been a huge part of my life in the past few years and I just couldn't turn my back on all that," he said.
Paul's announcement came moments after his co-host Mary Berry confirmed she will be leaving the show out of loyalty to the BBC.
© Photo: Getty ImagesPaul Hollywood has signed a three-year deal with Channel 4 to remain on Great British Bake Off
In a statement, the 81-year-old said: "What a privilege and honour it has been to be part of seven years of magic in a tent - The Great British Bake Off. The Bake Off family - Paul, Mel and Sue have given me so much joy and laughter.
"My decision to stay with the BBC is out of loyalty to them, as they have nurtured me, and the show, that was a unique and brilliant format from day one. I am just sad for the audience who may not be ready for change, I hope they understand my decision."
She added: "I wish the programme, crew and future bakers every possible success and I am so very sad not to be a part of it. Farewell to soggy bottoms."
His announcement came minutes after co-judge Mary Berry confirmed she would be leaving the show
Mary follows in the footsteps of hosts Mel Giedroyc and Sue Perkins who announced earlier this month that they would be stepping down, instead of "going with the dough".
"We were very shocked and saddened to learn yesterday evening that Bake Off will be moving from its home," they said in a joint statement.
“The BBC nurtured the show from its infancy and helped give it its distinctive warmth and charm, growing it from an audience of two million to nearly 15 at its peak.
"We've had the most amazing time on Bake Off, and have loved seeing it rise and rise like a pair of yeasted Latvian baps. We're not going with the dough. We wish all the future bakers every success."
