Why Robert Webb Not on The Great Christmas Bake Off 2025?
Fans of Peep Show were delighted when Channel 4 announced a festive reunion of the sitcom’s cast for a special edition of The Great British Bake Off. The Christmas special, which aired on December 25th, brought together David Mitchell, Olivia Colman, Isy Suttie, Matt King, and Sophie Winkleman for a joyful blend of nostalgia and baking chaos.
However, while five of the beloved stars returned to the screen together, many viewers immediately noticed the absence of one crucial member of the iconic duo — Robert Webb.
Robert Webb, who famously played Jeremy Usborne alongside Mitchell’s Mark Corrigan, revealed that scheduling conflicts were to blame for his absence from the festive episode. The actor was in Yorkshire filming a new children’s television series titled High Hoops for the BBC. The show centers around a girls’ basketball team, and Webb has a major role in its production.
Speaking to RadioTimes.com, the 53-year-old explained that he was already committed to the production schedule and couldn’t get additional filming days off to travel to the Bake Off tent. “I was in Yorkshire working on High Hoops,” Webb said, noting that asking for more time off from the project “would have been unreasonable” since his availability had already been tight during previous shoots.
Why He Couldn’t Rearrange His Schedule?
The actor elaborated that his filming commitments for High Hoops were non-negotiable, as the project demanded consistency from the entire team. Webb said he had already “been mean about [his] availability” and couldn’t realistically seek extra time away to appear on the show. While disappointed at having to miss out on reuniting with his Peep Show cast, he understood the necessity of maintaining his professional obligations.
A Video Message for His Former Co-Stars
Despite being unable to physically join the Bake Off tent, Webb didn’t leave his old friends hanging. He recorded a heartfelt — and humorously self-deprecating — video message that was played during the episode. In it, he expressed his disappointment at not being there, joking that at least he could appear on TV “at Christmas without the hassle of any baking!”
The short clip was a pleasant surprise for fans, bringing a touch of Webb’s signature charm to the episode and adding a sense of completion to the reunion. The exchange also underscored the continuing bond between the Peep Show actors, who have remained close since the series ended in 2015.
Why Robert Webb Might Not Have Missed Baking Itself?
Robert Webb also joked that his absence might not be much of a loss for the show’s culinary spirit, admitting he has “never baked before.” While his comedic partner David Mitchell gamely whisked and folded alongside Olivia Colman and the rest of the team, Webb’s humor leaned toward embracing his non-baker identity. “Some of us have got work for a living – not like Olivia Colman!” he quipped, showing his trademark blend of cheeky wit and self-awareness.
What’s Next for the Bake Off Specials?
Even without Webb’s full participation, The Great Christmas Bake Off 2025 proved a hit, filled with nostalgia, chaotic baking, and laughter — the perfect festive treat for fans of both shows. For those who missed it, the episode is available to stream on Channel 4’s catch-up service. And the fun isn’t over yet — The Great New Year’s Bake Off will air on January 1st, featuring returning favorites including Selasi, Tasha, Rahul, Val, and Giuseppe, promising more festive kitchen fun to kick off the new year.
Disclaimer
This article is based on public interviews, broadcaster information, and media coverage involving Robert Webb and The Great British Bake Off. Details reflect information available at the time of broadcast and publication. Scheduling and production decisions are subject to change.
