Prue Leith has recently defended her co-star Paul Hollywood against claims of his “horrible” persona on the popular show, The Great British Bake Off. The two judges, speaking from Welford Park in Berkshire, shared insights into their public perceptions and their actual scoring habits.
Perceptions of Paul Hollywood’s Persona
Within the context of the Channel 4 show, Paul is often viewed as the tough judge, while Prue is seen as the more compassionate one. Despite this public perception, Prue revealed that their scoring is quite similar. She mentioned, “If you look at our scores out of 10, we’re never more than one point apart.”
Judging Style and Handshakes
Prue noted that she rarely gives full scores, having issued only one 10 in her nine years on the show. She humorously remarked, “It’s not worth the calories,” indicating her critical approach to baked goods. This sentiment, however, led some viewers to believe she was passing judgment on those who enjoy indulging in cake.
- Paul Hollywood has never awarded a perfect score of 10, settling for 9.5 instead.
- A “handshake” from Paul signifies a very high standard of baking, close to a perfect mark.
- Prue suggested that despite his insistence on not giving handshakes, Paul often ends up doing so for exceptional bakes.
Off-Camera Moments
In a heartwarming reflection, former contestant Briony May Williams shared a personal experience illustrating a softer side of Paul Hollywood. During her time on the show in 2018, when things went horribly wrong with her cake, Paul comforted her with a hug off-camera. This act showcased his empathy, countering the public’s view of him as merely a stern judge.
She recounted, “I was upset, and someone was stood behind me. It was Paul. He gave me a really big hug and he said, ‘It’s okay it’s only a f*g cake.’” This incident provided her not only with comfort but also a humorous memory amidst her baking struggles.
The Great British Bake Off continues to capture the hearts of viewers, with new episodes airing on Channel 4.
