Prue Leith
Definition
Dame Prue Leith, DBE (born 18 February 1940) is a South African-born British restaurateur, chef, broadcaster, cookery writer, novelist, and former judge on The Great British Bake Off.
She served as a judge on the popular television baking competition The Great British Bake Off for nine series from 2017 until her announced departure in January 2026, after presiding over more than 400 challenges.
Leith is also a life peer in the House of Lords, a businesswoman, and author known for her contributions to the culinary world and food policy.
Examples
Prue Leith's graceful exit from Bake Off after nine series is the perfect bake: risen just right and leaving us hungry for an encore.
At 86, Prue Leith decided Bake Off needed fresh dough, proving even legendary judges know when to let the sponge cool.
Fans are gutted about Prue Leith leaving Bake Off, but at least now she can critique soggy bottoms in peace without Paul Hollywood stealing the oven space.
Prue Leith's Bake Off tenure was like her signature soufflé: light, witty, and impossible to forget, even as it deflates from our screens.