A Strictly Come Dancing star has quit OnlyFans after learning that his ‘value isn’t in muscles or body image’.
John Whaite, 36, won The Great British Bake Off in 2012 before making history in Strictly by participating in the first same-sex pairing with Johannes Radebe in 2021, reaching the final.
In 2023, he revealed that he would not be appearing on TV again after being ‘blindsided’ by the axe of Steph’s Packed Lunch from Channel 4.
Turning his back on TV, he then joined OnlyFans, and has since been open about his experience on the platform, explaining that it gave him ‘a sense of complete freedom in my sexuality’ despite initially regretting signing up.
The move did see the Bake Off star get dropped by several brands, including Waitrose who did so ‘without any notice’.
Get personalised updates on Strictly
Wake up to find news on your TV shows in your inbox every morning with Metro’s TV Newsletter.
Sign up to our newsletter and then select your show in the link we’ll send you so we can get TV news tailored to you.
Now, however, the 36-year-old has told fans that he is leaving OnlyFans to focus on other career avenues.
Taking to Instagram, he said: ‘I’m leaving OnlyFans. Life has shifted in a way I couldn’t have predicted — Ruff Puff Bakehouse and Ruff Puff Brownies have taken up so much of my time, but in the best possible way.
‘They’ve reminded me of a talent I’d neglected, and given me a new respect for the craft that first set me on this path all those years ago.
‘Working side by side with the team, creating something real and lasting, has shown me that my value isn’t in muscles or body image — it’s in building, baking, and sharing. For the first time since Bake Off 13 years ago, I feel a true sense of purpose again.
‘This isn’t the end of something, it’s the start of a new chapter — one rooted in passion, creativity, and community. And I couldn’t be more ready.’
He continued: ‘To all the OnlyFans fans and peers – thank you for the support along the way. I wish you all well and much success.
‘I’m not Jonny Boy, I’m just John, and I’m putting one foot in front of the other just like the rest of the world.’
Responding beneath his post, several fans praised the baker’s decision.
@kirstie_young_photography wrote: ‘I absolutely love this – your bakery is phenomenal and fantastic that you are fully stepping into that. One step in front of the other is all we can do.’
@heather.miller54 also said: ‘Life is a recipe – always in progress, but for this chapter you have all the right ingredients.’
Meanwhile, amandajane0234 added: ‘All the best for your future John, you’re amazing whatever you do never forget that.’
Earlier this year, John was recognised in the top 0.41% of all creators on the OnlyFans platform.
Metro has contacted John Whaite for comment.
Got a story?
If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.