“They're so good”— The Great British Bake Off star Paul Hollywood admits to struggling with the judging process

As The Great British Bake Off has returned for its season 15, veteran judge Paul Hollywood revealed how challenging it has become to judge the increasing talent on the show.

With bakers more skilled than ever, Hollywood expressed the difficulty of making decisions to TV Times on October 22, saying,

“It gets harder as you go through, as there’s so little between the bakers. We used to worry over whether enough good people would apply for the show, but now we think, ‘How are we going to judge them?’ They’re so good from the start.”

Hollywood and fellow judge Prue Leith face the tough task of narrowing down the contestants, as each week presents tighter competition. The show continues to be guided by hosts Noel Fielding and Alison Hammond.

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The judging dynamics on The Great British Bake Off

Hollywood also reflected on the unique connection he shares with Leith, which helps in making those difficult calls.

“There’s a certain amount of telepathy between us,”

He explained referring to their non-verbal communication during crucial moments of judging, particularly in the final Showstopper challenge.

He mentioned how they would often share a look, and get to know who they would be choosing. This silent understanding makes the process smoother, but the growing skill level of the bakers doesn’t make their job any easier.

Prue Leith, 84, echoed Hollywood’s sentiments, praising their professional relationship.

“Paul and I get on so well, and he’s just really good at judging,” she noted.

Even after years on the show, Leith emphasized that Hollywood is always “in the moment,” never treating the process like a routine, even after 15 seasons of saying things like, “the cake is soggy!”

Both judges maintain a strong rapport, which helps in the otherwise challenging task of determining which bakers should advance.

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Paul Hollywood: Leading artisan baker

One of the top bakers in the UK, Paul Hollywood has been a part of The Great British Bake Off since its beginning. Hollywood, who was raised in a baking household, first studied to be a sculptor until his father persuaded him to become a baker.

He has worked in some of the best hotels in the world, such as London's The Dorchester, which has solidified his standing as a bread-making master. The success of Hollywood's book 100 Great Breads as a global bestseller cemented his prowess in the culinary industry.

Hollywood’s dedication to The Great British Bake Off has been central to the show’s success. He acknowledged that the growing talent of the bakers makes his job more difficult every season.

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Prue Leith: Culinary expert

Prue Leith, a chef, restaurateur, and author with decades of experience, joined The Great British Bake Off in 2017. In addition to writing 12 cookbooks, 7 novels, and her autobiography, Relish: My Life on a Plate, she established Leith's Cookery School, which has trained many renowned chefs.

Beyond the kitchen, Leith has a significant impact. She has been on several boards aimed at enhancing food education, such as The School Food Trust, where she attempted to raise the standard of school meals in the United Kingdom.

Hollywood's judging style is complemented by Leith's on The Great British Bake Off, and her extensive background makes her a valued panelist.

She has made hints that she would leave the show soon, despite her demanding work, saying that she will miss the baking tent and the companionship when the time comes. For now, she continues to offer her expertise alongside Hollywood, helping to maintain the show’s status.

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The viewers can tune in every Tuesday to watch The Great British Bake Off.