Nigella Lawson has addressed a common misconception regarding her distinctive voice, explaining that a ‘slight slur’ often leads people to believe she has been drinking. The celebrity chef, 66, made the clarification during an interview on BBC Radio 2 as she prepares for her debut as a judge on The Great British Bake Off.
The Voice Misconception
During a recent chat with Sara Cox on BBC Radio 2 earlier this month, Cox praised Lawson’s voice as ‘iconic’ and ‘wonderful’, prompting the chef to clarify the nature of her speaking style. Lawson stated: But the thing is it’s difficult, because I have a slight slur. People always think I’ve been drinking, but I have a slur in my voice
, as reported by the Daily Express.
The Tab notes that this misunderstanding has followed Lawson for years, with speculation arising even from recent television appearances, leading her to set the record straight on her natural speech pattern. The source highlighted an instance where one person wrote on Twitter: Was Nigella Lawson drunk on the one show today? Something weird about her, a bit slurry, moving constantly
.
Previous Speech Incidents
This is not the first instance where Lawson has felt the need to clarify her manner of speaking. In 2023, she admitted to feeling anxious about pronouncing the word ‘microwave’ after a clip of her saying it as ‘micro-wah-vay’ went viral.
During an appearance on BBC Breakfast nearly three years ago, she confessed to adopting an alternative three-word phrase for the kitchen appliance. She explained: I wasn’t quite aware I’d said it, because that’s what I call it at home…It’s made me quite self-conscious now. I tend to refer to it as the you-know-what now
, according to Wales Online.
Joining The Great British Bake Off
Despite these personal revelations, Lawson’s career as one of Britain’s most recognisable television chefs continues to flourish. She is currently making her debut on The Great British Bake Off, joining fellow judge Paul Hollywood and presenters Alison Hammond and Noel Fielding.
Lawson steps into the role previously held by Dame Prue Leith, who joined the show in 2017 after its move to Channel 4, and before her, Dame Mary Berry. Ahead of series 17, Lawson shared her feelings on Instagram in August, stating: I’m a bit nervous, very excited, and extremely happy: Bake Off is back on our screens next month! I’ve loved every minute. It’s a real honour to be part of something so special
.
She also expressed gratitude to her co-stars for their welcoming attitude, saying: Thank you @paul.hollywood @alisonhammond55 and @noel_fielding for making me feel so instantly part of the family. You three plus cake: talk about the dream job!
Nigella, alongside Paul, Alison, and Noel, returns to British screens tonight, October 13, at 8pm on Channel 4.
