The Great British Bake Off

Ashley Sudeta

Since 2010, The Great British Bake Off has served as a cozy, British-flavored option for American fans of culinary television. Series 16 began with twelve amateur bakers entering the competition tent, and Netflix will continue releasing episodes each Friday until one winner remains. Contestants churn out a wide range of confections to complete signature, technical, and showstopper baking challenges for categories like “Cake Week” and “Chocolate Week.” At the end of each week, one baker is named Star Baker and one is eliminated from the competition.

Everything about the show is quite sweet—-in the literal and figurative sense. However, even amid the mouthwatering bakes, the contestants are the boldest part of this show. Each individual infuses their lives into their work and their diverse backgrounds make the show’s story richer. Ukrainian immigrant Nataliia is teary as she carves and decorates a cake to resemble her home country’s landscape. She marks Kyiv with a fondant heart. During a stressful moment, a host asks Jessika what her drag king persona would do in that moment. Viewers finish each episode with not just a sugar craving, but also feelings of closeness to each baker.

Based on the show’s title, The Great British Bake Off could be assumed to be painfully British and exclusively food-focused. However, it’s possible to enjoy this show even if you hate the British and know nothing about baking. At its core, the personal narratives are what makes the show so compelling. I can’t wait to see how the bakers grow as the season progresses.