Matt Lucas has quit The Great British Bake Off, saying it has become "clear" he can't continue hosting the show.
The presenter announced on Twitter on Tuesday evening he won't be back to host the new series, which he has been at the helm of alongside Noel Fielding for three series.
During his time on the show, he filmed a total of 51 episodes and was always there for the stressed baker who needed his support when their dessert, cake or tart went wrong.
The comedian and presenter has now revealed he will be exiting the Channel 4 show but vowed to still be watching from home as he revealed his plans to focus on his role on Fantasy Football League.
"Farewell Bake Off! It's been a delicious experience and I can't imagine a more fun way of spending my summers. But it's become clear to me that I can't present both Fantasy Football League and Bake Off alongside all my other projects," he wrote on Twitter.
"So, after three series and 51 episodes, I am cheerfully passing the baguette on to someone else."
He added: "I would like to give my warmest thanks and gratitude to everyone at Love Productions and Channel 4 and to Noelipops, Paul, Dame Prue, the crew and, of course, the wonderful bakers for welcoming me into the tent.
"I wish whoever takes over the very best and I can't wait to tune into the next series without already knowing who won!"
Bake Off's official Twitter account also paid tribute to Matt.
They quoted Matt's goodbye message and wrote alongside it: "We've loved having Matt Lucas brighten up our Tent for the last three years, especially when laughter and smiles were so much in need. We appreciate everything he's done for Bake Off, from working in Covid bubbles to supporting the bakers. It's been a pleasure - thanks Matt."
Following the announcement, fans rushed to social media to pay tribute to Matt's presenting skills on the show.
"Sad to hear that. Matt & Noel are brilliant on the show," one wrote, whilst a second penned: "I’m gonna miss Matt! He was awesome! Thank you for the wonderful seasons, Matt!" A third shared: "I’m going to miss @RealMattLucas, he was warm, kind & funny."
Syabira was crowned winner of this year's series as the cardiovascular research associate went head to head with other finalists Abdul Rehman Sharif, 29, and Sandro Farmhouse, 30, in the infamous white tent.
"I can’t believe it, honestly, it hasn’t sunk in yet. All the hard work, all the trial and error, it has all been worth it," she said following her win whilst Paul Hollywood described her as an "incredible baker".
