Laëtitia Milot Quits ‘The Best Pastry Chef’ to Focus on Acting

Laëtitia Milot, a familiar face to French television audiences, is stepping down from her role as host of the popular baking competition “Le Meilleur Pâtissier” (The Best Pastry Chef). The actress, known for her long-running role in the soap opera “Plus belle la vie,” announced her departure on Instagram Monday, February 23, 2026, citing a desire to refocus on acting projects.

Milot joined the show in 2024, taking over hosting duties from Marie Portolano. Her arrival was initially met with surprise by viewers, but she quickly settled into the role, becoming a popular figure alongside judge Cyril Lignac. “Because all good things must come to an end, I will not be hosting the next season of ‘Le Meilleur Pâtissier’,” Milot wrote in her Instagram post. She described the decision as “difficult” but necessary to prioritize her return to fiction roles.

The news comes shortly after another significant change for the show: the departure of longtime judge Mercotte. Mercotte, a fixture on “Le Meilleur Pâtissier” for over a decade, has confirmed she is leaving the program, closing the book on her iconic judging role. According to Mercotte, the production team is facing challenges in finding a suitable replacement. “I know that the production is having trouble finding a replacement. It’s not simple,” she stated.

Milot’s departure marks the fourth time the show has changed hosts in its fourteen seasons. Faustine Bollaert hosted the first five seasons, followed by Julia Vignali for three seasons, then Marie Portolano for three, and finally Milot for two. The frequent turnover in hosting positions raises questions about the long-term stability of the show’s on-screen presence, though the enduring popularity of judge Cyril Lignac provides a consistent anchor.

While Milot is leaving the baking tent, she expressed fondness for her time on the show. “I took this role as host – and confidante – very much to heart, in the same way as all those I have embodied in my life as an actress,” she said. “I am delighted to have had the chance to host this series of shows for two seasons and will keep an excellent memory of it.” She specifically acknowledged the positive experience of working with Lignac and Mercotte, as well as the contestants.

Mercotte, while firm in her decision to step down as a judge, hasn’t entirely ruled out future involvement with the show. She suggested the possibility of making guest appearances in special episodes. “We see possible, over the years, that I will be asked to return for a special show, as a guest,” she said, leaving the door slightly ajar for a potential return in a different capacity.

The timing of these departures is notable. News of Milot’s exit surfaced just after an incident reported on September 17, 2025, where Milot “narrowly escaped disaster” during filming of season 14, according to reports. While details of the incident remain scarce, it may have contributed to her decision to step away from the demanding role of host.

Milot’s return to acting is a significant development for her career. She is best known for her portrayal of Mélanie Rinato in “Plus belle la vie,” a role she held for many years. Her decision to prioritize fiction projects suggests a desire to return to her roots and explore new creative opportunities. The move also reflects a broader trend among French television personalities to balance hosting roles with acting commitments.

The future of “Le Meilleur Pâtissier” remains uncertain with both a host and a judge departing. M6, the channel that broadcasts the show, will need to find suitable replacements to maintain the program’s popularity. The search for a new judge, in particular, appears to be proving challenging, as Mercotte’s expertise and personality will be difficult to replicate. The show’s continued success will depend on finding individuals who can bring a similar level of warmth, knowledge, and entertainment value to the baking competition.