When I was watching one of my favorite podcasts, Two Idiot Girls by Drew and Deison Afualo, I noticed they mentioned this show on Netflix: The Great British Baking Show. Since they are avid Great British Bake Off fans, I assumed it was pretty good. So, while keeping up with assignments, I decided to turn on an episode of the latest season and play it in the background. I became so addicted that I decided to watch the earlier seasons. Therefore, I will be demonstrating why you should give this show a watch.
This show consists of two judges, Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith, along with two hosts, comedian Noel Fielding and this season’s new host Alison Hammond. At the show’s beginning, they bring 12 passionate newcomer bakers to compete against each other. What I love most about this show as compared to other baking shows in America is that it is much calmer and wholesome. As I have seen in cooking competitions in the United States, there is much more intense and some malice in some competitors; however, in The Great British Bake Off, every competitor is so supportive and cheers on their peers. Also, in baking shows, there is a lot of focus on the bakers; however, in the Great British Bake Off, the hosts, Noel and Allison would joke around and check on the competitors on how they are doing. Also, their presence did not feel forced; their jokes made me laugh while watching. Also, Allison is a wonderful addition after Matt Lucas’ had left the show due to scheduling conflicts. Hopefully, she will become a permanent co-host of the Great British Bake Off. Also, each week, there is a themed week, such as Cake Week, Pastry Week, and Bread Week. Each week, they have to perform a signature dish, do a replica of what the judges have picked, and then do the showstopper challenge, in which they have to do a grandiose dish involving massive skill and talent. On Netflix, they have collections from five to eleven, so you could use this semester to watch every season.