Strictly star shares devastation as Steph’s Packed Lunch is axed: 'It changed my life'

ok.co.uk:

John Whaite has shared his devastation at Channel 4 cancelling Steph's Packed Lunch in an emotional tribute where he says the daytime show "changed my life".The Great British Bake Off star, who was runner-up in Strictly Come Dancing 2021, is the programme's in-house chef where he works closely with show host Steph McGovern.

Channel 4 announced yesterday, 19th October, that Steph's Packed Lunch would wrap up in December, with cast and crew apparently hearing the sad news on the same day.

John, 34, posted some pictures of himself with his colleagues from the show on Instagram and wrote a heartfelt message marking the show's axe.

He wrote: "Breaking my little insta-pause to post about this. I’m sure you’ve read the deeply sad news that Steph’s Packed Lunch will not be returning after December. "I want to shout, as loud as possible, about how brilliant the team have been.The eclectic mix of folk from a hodgepodge of backgrounds and generations worked tirelessly to try to keep the integrity of a 100-year-old industry alive, and bring lunchtime entertainment and company to many a household. "What they created was a show that was as diverse as it was welcoming, and I hope each and every one of them continue to thrive wherever the wind next takes them, because they deserve nothing but success." Sharing the show's effect on his life, he continued: "The food team - Courtney, Sarah and the talented home economists - have been a lifeline to me on so many occasions, and it’s been an honour to work with them (and the rest of the production and editorial teams) for the past 3 years. "And finally I hope that Steph, Vivek, Matt and all the people at the top feel nothing but immense pride for creating a ground-breaking, inclusive show..