Prue Leith has come to the defense of her colleague, Paul Hollywood, regarding his perceived “unpleasant” image on The Great British Bake Off. Speaking from the renowned tent at Welford Park in Berkshire, the Bake Off judges shed light on their public personas and how viewers perceive them on the Channel 4 show.
Prue, a restaurateur born in South Africa, highlighted the contrast in public perception, with herself being viewed as “kind” and Paul as “unpleasant.” However, she emphasized that despite these perceptions, when it comes to scoring, they are quite similar in their judgments.
The chef revealed that their discussions about the bakes in Cake Corner are primarily aimed at educating and reminding viewers, as in reality, Prue and Paul could assess them quickly. Prue shared in an interview with Radio Times magazine that while the audience often labels her as kind and Paul as harsh, their scoring is usually within one point of each other, with her giving very few perfect scores over the years.
Addressing a previous statement about the calorie worthiness of baked goods, Prue acknowledged a change in perspective due to criticisms of being judgmental. Paul, on the other hand, mentioned his approach to scoring, indicating that a handshake from him signifies a high level of professionalism from the amateur bakers.
Prue also mentioned the idea of her own version of a handshake, the “Prue pat,” and highlighted Paul’s tendency to give in to impressive bakes despite claiming he won’t offer handshakes. Away from the cameras, Paul’s compassionate side was revealed when he consoled a contestant with a hug during a difficult moment on the show.
In related developments, a former contestant, Briony May Williams, shared a touching off-camera moment with Paul when he comforted her after a baking mishap. Despite labeling her creation a disaster on the show, Paul’s off-camera actions showed a more empathetic side, providing support and encouragement to the distraught contestant.
The Great British Bake Off: An Extra Slice can be watched on Channel 4 on Friday, October 24, from 8 pm to 9 pm.