Nigella Lawson has replaced Dame Prue Leith as a judge on The Great British Bake Off following the show's return for a new series on Tuesday. Most television critics have praised her appointment, with the Telegraph and Guardian awarding five-star reviews and describing her as a positive addition that gives the show "a new lease of life". However, not all were convinced—the Independent argued that Channel 4 missed an opportunity for a more substantial refresh and that Nigella's talents are underutilised by the existing format.

Lawson joins returning judge Paul Hollywood (on the show since its 2010 launch) and presenters Alison Hammond and Noel Fielding. Former winner Giuseppe Dell'Anno noted that Lawson has "produced a step change" and represents "a nice fit", though he suggested she may improve as she settles into the role. Several critics observed that Lawson delivered less innuendo than her public persona might suggest, instead offering measured, helpful feedback. The Telegraph's Anita Singh praised her for bringing "glamour, intelligence and poise", whilst the Independent's Nick Hilton argued the show's format remained unchanged and risked feeling "stale" despite the new judge's arrival.