In a delightful moment on this morning's broadcast, Saturday Kitchen host Matt Tebbutt brought the show to a temporary halt to share some exciting news with viewers.
A Star-Studded Announcement
Tebbutt was joined by a panel of esteemed guests, including The Celebrity Traitors finalist Joe Marler, Sam Holland, chef Jeremy Lee, and Bake Off favourite Crystelle Pereira. Just before the programme concluded, Matt seized the opportunity to make his announcement.
"I've got an announcement," he declared. "We're thrilled that we've been shortlisted by the public for the best food show in the world... no in the UK, at the TV Choice Awards."
A Call for Votes and On-Air Banter
He immediately encouraged the audience to cast their votes, quipping, "We'd love you to vote but only if you're going to vote for us, no one else." In a light-hearted nod to his guest's recent television success, Tebbutt added, "If you like Joe, vote for us now."
This prompted a witty retort from Joe Marler, who jokingly replied, "No, you are losing, serial loser, brings the show down," creating a moment of genuine, humorous chemistry between the host and his guest.
Fan Support and Show Legacy
The announcement has been met with a wave of support from the show's dedicated fans on social media. One viewer commented, "Saturday morning ritual! Fabulous programme!" while another stated, "Just voted, Saturday Kitchen is my favourite show." A further supporter expressed, "Amazing and would be a very worthy winner...huge fan of the show."
Matt Tebbutt has been the main presenter of Saturday Kitchen since 2017, taking over from James Martin. His history with the show stretches back even further, as he first appeared as a guest host in 2009.
The show now finds itself in a competitive shortlist for Best Food Show. It is up against Martin's own ITV programme, which airs at the same time, as well as Sunday Brunch, various shows by Jamie Oliver, and Anisley's Fantastic Flavours.
Earlier this year, Matt spoke candidly about the programme's future, acknowledging, "It's going to stop at some point. I'm going to have to do something." When asked about a potential return to the restaurant business if the show ends, he remarked, "Never say never. Maybe that's the time to do it."
He had previously affirmed the show's ongoing popularity, revealing, "We sort of carry on making the best show we can, people still love it, they're still watching it, in their millions fortunately. So it's still got a huge place but I think going forward, TV in general will have to address how it's viewed."
Saturday Kitchen airs from 9.15am on BBC One and iPlayer.
