Former Generation Game host Jim Davidson slams Bake Off hosts Mel Giedroyc and Sue Perkins saying ‘they’re not there to bake a f***ing cake’
THE BBC halved the number of episodes of the Generation Game this month, signalling it has already given up on the reboot before it even airs.
And former host JIM DAVIDSON isn’t holding out much hope for it either.
The comedian, who fronted the show from 1995 until 2001, has questioned the decision to put former Bake Off hosts MEL GIEDROYC and SUE PERKINS at the helm.
He says the duo who weren’t even first choice after MIRANDA HART pulled out, are not good enough to fill legendary host SIR BRUCE FORSYTH’s shoes.
In an exclusive interview, Jim. far right, said: “They’re not right, they won’t know how to ad-lib. They’re not there to teach them how to bake a f***ing cake.
“I don’t know these women, I’ve never heard of them but you need someone that’s going to be able to ad-lib and drive the show along.
“That’s why Bruce was so good. He drove it along his way.
“He was the energy. You can’t remember any of the people on it, all you remember is Bruce.”
Brucie fronted the show from 1971 to 1977 and then again in the Nineties, coining his iconic catchphrase “Nice to see you, to see you nice” along the way.
The BBC announced plans to reboot the popular Saturday night show in 2014.
But earlier this month The Sun revealed how bosses were so unhappy with Mel and Sue’s efforts that they had cut it from four episodes to just two.
And Jim thinks the only man who could save the show is BRADLEY WALSH.
He added: “I think he wants to do it as well. Last time I spoke to him he’s going off being Doctor Who’s assistant.
“But he said to me, ‘I’d love to do the Generation Game.’ ”
A Tardis could be the only thing to save the new series right now.
READ ON FOR MORE OF DAN WOOTTON'S BIZARRE TV COLUMN
Ball set to roll 300 miles
THE suicide of ZOE BALL’s cameraman boyfriend Billy Yates last May has spurred her into action in his memory – signing up to cycle 300-plus miles from Blackpool to Brighton for Sport Relief.
The host of Strictly Come Dancing spin-off show It Takes Two – with Billy – said: “I lost someone very dear to me who really struggled with depression, so it was really important that I did something.”
Zoe, who sets off next week, is raising money to support vulnerable people across the UK and the world to live healthier, happier and safer lives.
She added: “I’ve been training my heart out for the past few weeks in preparation for this epic, BT-sponsored challenge.
“A few predictable and embarrassing falls and lots of chafing cream applied, but thinking of the reason
I signed up for this challenging adventure will spur me on.”
Some of that Strictly Lycra should come in handy too . . . minus the sequins.
bizbit
SCARLETT MOFFATT brought new boyfriend Lee Wilkinson to Saturday Night Takeaway to watch her on the show.
The personal trainer joined Scarlett’s family and pals on the sidelines after she confirmed the romance on Instagram.
James is a happy chef now
WITH a busy TV career and cookbook empire, JAMES MARTIN isn’t planning on stopping to get married or have kids any time soon.
The chef, who has been dating girlfriend Louise Davies for seven years, is too busy enjoying life.
James said: “I don’t think about it. You never know what life is going to bring you.
“I’m just thankful I’m standing upright because there’s a lot of people who aren’t.”
After quitting BBC1’s Saturday Kitchen two years ago, James is happier than ever travelling all over the world with his food shows and writing his latest book, James Martin’s American Adventure.
He said: “I just feel better in myself. I was a knackered grumpy chef and I feel just different now. I’m happier.”
Taylor made trouble
THE new face on EastEnders is actually a blast from the past for one character.
Actor ROGER GRIFFITHS arrives in Albert Square next month playing Mitch Baker, whose van mysteriously breaks down in Walford.
It turns out he is Karen Taylor’s ex-boyfriend – the father of her son Keegan – and he’s intent on making his mark on their family life.
Roger said: “The Taylors are an established tight-knit family on the Square, so coming in as Mitch, the wild card, meant I had to hit the ground running. I had a brilliant time and the actors who make up the Taylor family made me feel at home instantly. It was love at first sight.”
I doubt Karen would say the same, though.
MOST READ IN BIZARRE
Soapbox
BILLY is at the Red Rec trying to get more methadone in CORONATION STREET when he gets a call from the school asking him to come in to talk about Summer.
Outside the school he spots Geraldine and is furious when she tells him they have been keeping her updated on how behind Summer is.
Meanwhile, Eileen rows with Liz again over Phelan, and as she heads to the hospital to see Nicola she’s yet again being persuaded to leave him.
In HOLLYOAKS, Luke suggests to Mandy that they should get their own place with Ollie and Ella. With the pressure on at home, Darren and Mandy look for a new place to carry on their affair.
When The Bean is broken into, Mandy finds herself a new venue to continue the fun.
must watch
WHAT? MasterChef, 9pm, BBC1.
WHY? JOHN TORODE and GREGG WALLACE return. Tonight, the first seven hopefuls begin on the market challenge, with just over an hour to cook up a storm.