Matt Lucas confirms Great British Bake Off 2021 starts filming soon: "We're going into a bubble"

The comedian, who made his Bake Off hosting debut last year as a replacement for Sandi Toksvig, revealed the news during an appearance on Lorraine this morning (Friday 14th May).

“We’re starting [filming] very soon," he said. "And, like last year, we’re going into a bubble – all self-isolating and getting tested and then we’re going into COVID-free bubble, so we can all taste each other’s bakes and there can be handshakes and all sorts."

While there's still quite some time to go until the new line-up of contestants is revealed to the public, Lucas said he's already had a sneak preview of some of their baking skills – and he's been impressed by what he's seen so far.

“I’ve seen the video clips of all the new bakers and there’s some brilliant ones in there," he said, before going on to talk about his rapport with co-host Noel Fielding.

“I just have fun and I love working with Noel," he said. "He’s so funny. And of course we’ve both been in double acts – we’re used to being in that dynamic. So when we write together we understand the rhythms to go, ‘Oh actually, I’ve thought of this joke, but you have it.’ Noel is really generous like that. He comes up with very funny things for me to say.

"And Paul [Hollywood] and Prue [Leith] are so friendly and they were so welcoming. I was so nervous going into this hugely popular show and Sandi [Toksvig] had left very big boots to fill. But it’s great, so much fun to be a part of."

Bake Off normally begins towards the end of August, although last year's series was delayed until September as a knock-on effect of the pandemic, so it's not clear exactly when we can expect this year's contest to debut.

One thing is for sure though, the new batch will all be desperate to follow in the footsteps of last year's winner Peter, who saw off competition from Dan and Laura in the final to become the youngest ever baker to be crowned winner.

The Great British Bake Off will air on Channel 4 later in 2021 and Lorraine airs weekdays from 9am on ITV. If you’re looking for something to watch tonight, check out our TV Guide. Visit our Entertainment hub for all the latest news.