has taken the UK by storm ever since it first aired in 2010. The premise of the show is simple: 12 bakers are assigned three challenges every week until the best amateur baker is crowned. There really isn’t much more to it, so why is it so popular?
First, let’s get an idea of just how popular is. Last season’s finale peaked at 13.5 million viewers, meaning that one in five people in the UK tuned in. It also makes it the most watched TV show in the UK in 2014, beating out heavy hitters like and . With those statistics, it wouldn’t be particularly far fetched to say that has become a part of the British national identity.
The challenges are comprised of the signature, technical, and showstopper bakes—all examined scrupulously by judges Mary Berry and Paul Hollywood. The show owes its success, in part, to Mary and Paul. Mary’s endearing softness contrasts strongly with Paul’s no-nonsense attitude. Their deep knowledge of baked goods is evident, and when they start tirelessly dissecting the bakes, you actually start caring about the crumb structure and the thickness of pastry.
The rest of the permanent cast is comprised of hosts Mel Giedroyc and Sue Perkins, who provide much needed comic relief in the tense tent. Despite speaking primarily in puns and innuendos, it’s evident that they just want the bakers to feel comfortable in their environment. Mel and Sue have, on occasion, been known to unintentionally hinder the bakers’ efforts, but the fact that they’re always willing to lend a helping hand is a reflection of the kindness that marks the show.
Above all I believe it’s the show’s sweetness which makes it such a mainstay of British television. It sets itself apart from the plethora of drama-fuelled cooking competitions, filled with barbed VTs and manufactured catastrophes. The show is focused on the bakers and what they bake, and although that sounds a tad humdrum, it’s easy to become invested in the outcome of someone’s frangipane.
If you want to check it out for yourself, the finale will air this Wednesday, and should be available on BBC iPlayer (check out Google for advice on how to access it).
Series 6 Finalists
Full-time mum Nadiya Hussain had a rocky start to the series but has since turned it around with a run of beautifully presented bakes. Nadiya has been known to let her nerves get to her; however, she’s probably the best baker out of the finalists when her creativity shines through.
Ian Cumming, the Dalai Lama’s personal photographer in the region, is the inventor of the tent. Winning star baker three weeks in a row early on made Ian a favourite to take home the crown, but he’s struggled to recapture that initial success.
Heartthrob and trainee anaesthetist, Tamal Ray is the most consistent of the bunch. His timing problems could very well be his downfall in the finals, but despite being adventurous with his flavours, he has yet to put out a truly spectacular bake.
