BBC viewers divided as Sara Pascoe’s return to Great British Sewing Bee prompts calls for change
Sara Pascoe’s return as host of The Great British Sewing Bee has sparked mixed reactions from viewers, with many calling for previous presenter Kiell Smith-Bynoe to come back to the programme.
The comedian, 44, resumed her hosting duties on BBC One after maternity leave, but her comeback has been met with a wave of criticism on social media.
Numerous fans took to X, formerly Twitter, to express their disappointment at Smith-Bynoe’s absence from the beloved sewing competition.
One viewer wrote: “No offence to Sara Pascoe, but where the b***** hell is Kiell???”
Another commented: “I already miss Kiell. Sara is too much for me. Mute & subtitles only solution.”
One frustrated fan posted: “I wanted to see Kiell again. Instead we’ve got the very unfunny Sara Pascoe.
“I hope the ‘humour’ is cut down and more time given to sewers to complete an assignment.”
Another viewer voiced similar sentiments, writing: “Your comments exactly echoes what I’m thinking right now. We will certainly miss Kiell.”
The backlash comes as Pascoe joined returning judges Esme Young and Patrick Grant for the new series.
Some fans also called for previous host Joe Lycett to return, with one simply stating: “Bring back Joe!”
However, not all reactions were negative, as some viewers welcomed Pascoe’s return.
“It’s like a big warm hug. Great to have Sara Pascoe back too,” one supporter wrote, whilst another added: “Lovely to see Sara Pascoe back on Sewing Bee!” (sic)
Smith-Bynoe had stepped in to host the show during Pascoe’s absence, and his stint clearly resonated with many regular viewers who now want him to continue in the role permanently.
The show’s return also saw contestant Glendora forced to miss challenges due to illness halfway through the episode.
Glendora participated in the first challenge and completed her design for the second, but was unable to attend the judging or take part in the final task.
Pascoe addressed the situation during the programme, explaining: “Unfortunately though, Glendora feels unwell so won’t be attending the judging.”
The incident meant viewers witnessed an incomplete competition, with one sewer absent from crucial segments of the show.
Following this, nobody was eliminated from the show this week, which was announced as a happy surprise at the end.
The news was met with delight from the contestants, who were able to breathe a sigh of relief after their Great British Sewing Bee debut.
However, it was also made clear this meant two would need to bid farewell next week.
“It was such a close-run thing,” Grant explained, adding: “We just thought we’d love to see you all again next week.”
“But that does however mean that two people will be going home next week,” Pascoe shared.
Ending on a high note, the presenter added: “But, for now – congratulations!”
The contestants laughed and cheered in celebration before preparing for another competitive week.