Paul Hollywood, known for his neatly cropped silver-grey hair and trimmed beard on The Great British Bake Off, once sported long dark locks down to his shoulders during his teenage years. The 60-year-old judge shared a throwback image and story on the show's official Instagram page about how he got into baking, revealing a look far removed from his current style.
From Art School to Bakery
Hollywood explained that after a year or two at art school studying sculpture, his father invited him to join the family bakery business. He recalled asking about potential earnings and being told a good figure at the time, around 70 pounds a week in cash.
His father then insisted he cut his hair, which reached his shoulders, because he would be working in a kitchen. Hollywood said he went from having hair down to his chest to a shaved grade one overnight, changing his look completely. He described that moment as the start of his life as a baker.
Early Career and Fan Reaction
Hollywood shared that joining the industry changed his life, having initially followed in his mother's footsteps as an artist before joining his dad's bakery at a young age. He began earning money at 17 and was able to buy his own things. He noted he enjoyed the work, even with early morning shifts starting at 1 or 2 a.m., or 11 p.m. on Fridays, while his friends were out.
Fans responded warmly to his story, with comments praising it as amazing and inspiring. One person wrote: "This is an amazing story." Another said: "I love the way Paul tells a story - we need more Paul story time!" Others called him an inspiration and expressed admiration for his achievements.
His Silver Hair Today
Hollywood has previously spoken about his hair, telling the Fuelling Around podcast that he visits the hairdressers to whiten the rest of his hair. He described the progression from "very pepper" years ago, to "salt and pepper," and now "just salt."
The Great British Bake Off continues Tuesdays on Channel 4 from 8pm.
