Bake Off Judges Share Behind-the-Scenes Moment Ahead of New Series Launch

The start of the new series of The Great British Bake Off is fast approaching, with the show set to premiere on Tuesday night. Ahead of the launch, judges Nigella Lawson, Paul Hollywood, Noel Fielding, and host Alison Hammond shared a lighthearted behind-the-scenes moment, appearing in good spirits.

Alison Hammond posted a snapshot on Instagram showing her with Hollywood, Fielding, and Lawson balancing on her knee. She captioned the image, "We always believe in supporting each other on bake off ! Bake off starts tonight on @channel4 @nigellalawson @paul.hollywood @noel_fielding don’t miss it It’s a goodie @britishbakeoff." Hammond also added in the comments, "So excited for tonight ! You will all just love Nigella."

Lawson responded to the post, calling it a "Great, love-filled BTS moment!"

Other notable figures expressed their anticipation for the new season. Alan Carr commented, "I'm so excited!!!" while the 2024 winner Georgie Grasso added, "Cannot wait to watch you all."

Nigella Lawson joined the judging panel earlier this year as a replacement for Prue Leith, who departed after nine years. The spin-off show, Extra Slice, has also been replaced by Second Helpings, with Judi Love and Jon Richardson taking over hosting duties from Jo Brand and Tom Allen.

Despite the camaraderie shown in the recent photo, rumors have circulated regarding potential friction between Lawson and Hollywood. One report suggested Lawson found Hollywood's method of arriving at the tent via private helicopter to be "gauche and silly." Additionally, at the Channel 4 launch event earlier this month, the judges did not stand next to each other on the red carpet.

Lawson has expressed some apprehension about her role, telling Radio Times that she is "no polished" baker and was concerned about her lack of professional polish. She noted her late entry into baking and her appreciation for home bakers, which she shares with the contestants.

Paul Hollywood commented on the dynamic with the new judge, stating, "The thing is Mary was different to Prue, Prue was different to Nigella and Nigella is different to Mary. They each bring their own character to it, and Nigella is a very warm person, especially to the bakers. More so than Mary was and I think more akin to Prue. There's a very nurturing nature to Nigella, which was quite strong this year. Whereas me, I suppose I'm the constant. So I remain in my position of being constructively critical."

Channel 4 has revealed the lineup of contestants for the upcoming series, which includes a self-professed 'drag king' with two partners.