The Great British Bake Off returns with new judge Nigella Lawson

The Great British Bake Off is entering its 17th year with several notable changes and new participants. Nigella Lawson has joined the judging panel, replacing Dame Prue Leith, who stepped down after nine series. Lawson will serve alongside Paul Hollywood, with hosts Alison Hammond and Noel Fielding. Lawson expressed her intention to focus on positive encouragement for contestants.

The upcoming series features 12 bakers, including Connie, a 63-year-old NHS hospital discharge lead from London known as ‘the Cake Lady’. The competition will include various challenges such as self-portrait cakes and wearable bakes.

Historically, the show has produced several successful alumni, including Nadiya Hussain, who became a prominent BBC presenter and author, John Whaite, a television chef, and Liam Charles, a regular baking television personality and judge.