The Sun hasclaimed that stars such as French and Saunders, Jamie Oliver and Davina McCall all turned down the job.
A Bake Off insider told the publication: “Noel and Sandi are an odd combination and they certainly weren’t top of the list – or even tenth on the list.
“Channel 4’s most loyal presenters were not interested. There was talk that replacing Mel and Sue was a toxic proposition,” they added.
Noel is best known for his creation of surreal comedy The Mighty Boosh and regular appearances on the raucous music quiz show Never Mind the Buzzcocks.
The source also revealed that the broadcaster is concerned about the hiring of the 43-year-old.
“A lot of people at Love Productions are worried about what Channel 4 is going to do with their show.
“Noel is going to turn off a lot of the family viewing that made Bake Off such a favourite.
“But this is the risk of selling off a national treasure to the highest bidder,” the source added.
The paper went on to report that Noel was chosen after comedian Josh Widdecombe, 33, turned down the role “last minute”.
Noel joins Sandi, 58, who has most recently made waves hosting QI after Stephen Fry stepped down.
Prue Leith, 77, will be replacing Mary Berry, 81, in one of the judging roles.
Paul Hollywood, 51, is the only member of the original BBC line-up to move with the show to Channel 4.
A Love Productions spokesman told the newspaper: “Love Productions and Channel 4 jointly chose Sandi and Noel as presenters and they were they only pair an offer was made to.”
Express.co.uk has contacted Channel 4 for comment.
Daily Express :: TV and Radio Feed
