In a tear-jerking episode that left viewers reaching for their handkerchiefs, The Great British Bake Off said goodbye to one of its most charismatic contestants, Rowan, who departed the famous tent without receiving the honour every baker dreams of: Paul Hollywood's legendary handshake.
The 21-year-old music student, who quickly became a fan favourite for his flamboyant style and ambitious bakes, finally met his match during 'Pastry Week', a notoriously difficult challenge that has broken many talented bakers before him.
The Fateful Technical Challenge
Rowan's downfall came during the technical challenge, where contestants were asked to create eight identical, flawlessly glazed spanish-style puff pastry horns filled with orange and cinnamon-infused custard. The task proved particularly brutal, with even seasoned bakers struggling with the delicate pastry and precise timing required.
Despite his creative flair, Rowan's efforts fell short of the mark. His pastry horns were deemed underbaked and misshapen by the discerning judges, placing him at the bottom of the technical challenge rankings.
Judges' Final Deliberation
During the emotional final judgement, Paul Hollywood delivered the crushing verdict, stating that while Rowan showed 'incredible creativity', his 'execution lacked the precision needed to continue in the competition'.
Prue Leith added her own poignant assessment, praising Rowan's 'wonderful imagination' but noting that 'the basics of baking sometimes got lost in the ambition'.
A Handshake-less Exit
What made Rowan's departure particularly poignant for viewers was the absence of Hollywood's famed handshake throughout his entire journey. Many fans took to social media to express their disappointment, arguing that Rowan's creative bakes and entertaining presence deserved at least one recognition from the notoriously hard-to-please judge.
One emotional viewer tweeted: 'Rowan brought so much joy and creativity to the tent. He deserved that handshake more than anyone! #JusticeForRowan'
Another added: 'Paul Hollywood really let Rowan leave without a single handshake? The man made a working WATERFALL cake! #GBBO'
What's Next for Rowan?
Despite his early exit, Rowan's future looks sweet. His unique approach to baking and natural screen presence have already generated significant attention, with many predicting a successful career in food media or creative culinary ventures.
As the remaining bakers continue their journey toward the Bake Off crown, Rowan's departure serves as a stark reminder that in the famous tent, creativity must always be matched by technical perfection – and that even the most beloved bakers aren't guaranteed Hollywood's golden handshake.
