Paul Hollywood's decision to remain as a judge on The Great British Bake Off following its move to Channel 4 was met with controversy, particularly after fellow judge Mary Berry and show hosts Mel and Sue announced their plans to remain with the BBC. However, the 50-year-old judge has now broken his silence on his difficult decision, revealing that Mary approved of his decision.
Speaking at the Good Food Show, he said: "I spoke to Mary about it all the way through and she said 'I would go too if I was your age'."
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Paul is the only member of the original team to stay with the show
Although the baker told the audience that his decision was met with a reaction so strong it was like he had "murdered somebody", he teased that fans should be "pleasantly surprised" with the show after it moves to Channel 4.
"Chapter one is finished but the second chapter is about to begin," he said. "I can't really say too much but none of us were involved in the negotiations. You have the production company and then you have the channel. I always work for the production company… For the new series we will have the same tent, the same crew and the same challenges. I think you will be pleasantly surprised."
Paul revealed Mary supported his decision
Although Mary, Mel and Sue released statements in which they stated they would remain loyal to the BBC, Paul admitted that he had little direct contact with the network. He said: "I have got no direct contact with the BBC. At the end of the day it is all done through the production company. That is where it is all decided. I was so lucky to get that job in the first place. I feel a huge sense of loyalty to the tent and the crew."
Mary has spoken about Paul's move with the show to Channel 4. While attending the National Reality TV Awards, she said: "It's going to be different, but I am sure Paul will carry it on successfully."