"The Great British Baking Show" is perhaps the most soothing show on TV.
Inspired by village baking competitions, "The Great British Baking Show"— or "The Great British Bake Off"as it's known across the pond— is among the most-watched shows in the UK. After seven seasons on the BBC, it is catching on with American audiences thanks to Netflix and Amazon, which currently have three seasons of the show online.
Why are Americans falling hard for TGBBS? Because it's just so bloody nice. The contestants genuinely like each other, everyone is supportive, and even the judges are encouraging, offering words of advice or warning.
In short: It's the exact opposite of all the overly scripted American food competition shows.
It's not without controversy, however. Not only have there been a few ruined bakes — including one that caused the BBC to release a statement about the incident — but the show will now be moving from the BBC to Channel 4 and getting a new judge as well as two new hosts. Not everyone is thrilled.
Still, we're hopeful that TGBBS will stay the amateur cooking show we've grown to love. Keep reading to learn some behind-the-scenes secrets of "The Great British Baking Show."
There are typically 12 contestants each season and they all must be amateur bakers, which means they have no past experience as a chef, professional baker, or caterer.
Source: Country Living UK
They are put through a rigorous application process.
The process includes a seven-page application form, phone calls with researchers and producers, multiple auditions in London — including an on-screen technical challenge — and an interview with a psychologist to make sure they’re up for filming.
Source: Baking Martha and Telegraph
It’s an expensive application process when you consider the ingredients, tools, and sheer time needed to apply, not to mention travel expenses to and from London.
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