Usually when a new intake arrives, all eyes are on them.
Lineup Changes and New Presenters for the 2026 Series
According to Channel 4, the judging panel features Paul Hollywood alongside new judge Nigella Lawson, who was announced as Leith’s replacement in January. Changes also affect the companion programming, with the spin-off show Extra Slice replaced by Second Helpings. Presenters Judi Love and Jon Richardson replace Jo Brand and Tom Allen, joining returning hosts Alison Hammond and Noel Fielding inside the tent.
Contestant Profiles and Backgrounds
According to Channel 4 contestant biographies, the 12 amateur bakers bring diverse professional backgrounds and baking styles to the competition:
- Clara: A 24-year-old marketing graduate from Hertfordshire, originally from Aveiro, Portugal. According to Channel 4, she moved to the UK at 18 and began baking cakes two years ago, specializing in Portuguese classics like Tarte de Nata for her fiancé Kieran and his family.
- The news felt surreal, and for a while I couldn’t quite process what I was hearing.
- Danni: Dorset native Danni, 25, loves foraging in the countryside for their ingredients.
- Mo: A 21-year-old law student from the West Midlands, according to Channel 4 questionnaires.
- Gary: A 67-year-old retired garment technologist from Nottinghamshire, according to official biographies.
- Shannon: A 29-year-old project planner and scheduler from Gloucestershire who served as a back-up baker last year, according to her questionnaire.
- Gabe: A 32-year-old artist and drag king from the West Midlands, according to Channel 4 data.
- Moyin: A 22-year-old political economy student from Essex, according to contestant filings.
- Yannis: A 28-year-old paediatric doctor born in Vienna, raised in London, and of Bangladeshi heritage, according to his biography.
- Tom: A 25-year-old hairdresser from West Yorkshire, according to Channel 4 records.
- Nikki: A 50-year-old advertising post-producer from London and former 1990s nightclub podium dancer, according to her questionnaire.
- Molly: A 31-year-old accessibility coordinator from London who has baked since age six, according to official details.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the new series of The Great British Bake Off start?
According to Channel 4, the show launches on Tuesday, September 22 at 8pm.
Who are the judges for this season?
According to Channel 4, Paul Hollywood is joined by new judge Nigella Lawson, who replaces Prue Leith.
Who hosts the main show?
According to Channel 4, Alison Hammond and Noel Fielding return as the main series presenters.
Pro Tip: Check local listings on Channel 4 or stream episodes via digital catch-up services following the Tuesday broadcast premiere.
Join the Conversation
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