British-South African restaurateur, TV presenter and Chancellor of Queen Margaret University
The Independent and The Scotsman report on autumn TV lineups and upcoming specials. Major programmes include SNL UK’s return, Strictly Come Dancing’s revamped format, Brothers on Apple TV, The Real Rooneys on Disney+, and Last One Laughing UK season 3 with a Halloween special. Coverage covers cast updates, new formats, and release timelines.
Nigella Lawson has joined the Great British Bake Off as a judge, replacing Dame Prue Leith. The 17th series premieres on 22 September with Lawson in the tent alongside Paul Hollywood, Noel Fielding and Alison Hammond. Twelve amateur bakers from diverse backgrounds compete for the iconic cake stand as the new series launches.
Health ministers push binding national maternity standards and a new commissioner to end postcode gaps, following multiple investigations into failures. The plan aims to improve patient experience and address racial inequalities in maternity care.
Independent and other outlets report Dame Prue Leith’s calls for free, compulsory school meals and a ban on lunchboxes, while England plans to roll out free meals to universal-credit households as part of a wider school-food standards overhaul.
Nigella Lawson has joined The Great British Bake Off as a new judge alongside Paul Hollywood, with filming completed ahead of the show’s September return. Dame Prue Leith is stepping down after nine series; Lawson has expressed excitement and gratitude for joining the team. The trailer confirms the familiar panel, including Fielding and Hammond, as the series returns to Channel 4.