'Great British Bake Off' 2020 future still uncertain amid coronavirus safety concerns

Paul Hollywood, Prue Leith and Noel Fielding. (© Love Productions)
Paul Hollywood, Prue Leith and Noel Fielding. (© Love Productions)

The Great British Bake Off's 2020 series remains uncertain due to safety fears stemming from the coronavirus pandemic.

Filming typically takes place in spring for the show to begin airing toward the end of summer but was delayed this year. Now, a spokesperson has said they are still trying to bring the show to screens.

“We are working hard to deliver Bake Off to the audience this year, the priority is the safety of everyone involved in the production of the series,” a rep from production company Love Productions told The Sun.

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The show was not included in Channel 4's recent release of its TV highlights for this autumn.

Richard Bacon (right) with judges and presenters for The Great British Bake Off (left to right) Sandi Toksvig, Noel Fielding, Prue Leith and Paul Hollywood at Channel 4 studios in central London.
Richard Bacon (right) with judges and presenters for The Great British Bake Off (left to right) Sandi Toksvig, Noel Fielding, Prue Leith and Paul Hollywood at Channel 4 studios in central London.

It was announced filming would be halted on the contest in March as the programme said it would be following advice from Public Health England.

"We will delay filming on The Great British Bake Off until it is safe to proceed," a statement read.

Prior to the pandemic, presenter Sandi Toksvig stepped down from her role with comedian Matt Lucas later being announced as her replacement.

He said in a statement back in March: "I’m chuffed to bits to be joining the most delicious show on television. I can’t wait to break bread with Noel, Prue and Paul and meet the brilliant bakers.

“And bearing in mind my love of cake, I’ve already ordered some much larger trousers in anticipation."

Toksvig said she would be leaving the show to focus on her other work after three series on GBBO.