A former champion of the Great British Bake Off has lifted the lid on what it is truly like to work with judge Paul Hollywood away from the cameras. Matty Edgell, who triumphed in the 2023 series, disclosed that the 60-year-old baker does not hold back when evaluating contestants' creations on the Channel 4 programme.
Paul Hollywood's Unfiltered Critique
Edgell, a former PE teacher turned baking influencer, remarked: "Paul could definitely be more cruel with his criticism. He's there to play a certain role, and he plays that role very, very well." He elaborated that Hollywood offers candid feedback even when the cameras stop rolling. "He won't mince his words. Even where the camera cuts for the episode, Paul continues to tell you why something could have gone wrong," Edgell told Express.co.uk and Lottoland.
Psychological Tactics on Set
The Bake Off winner also described Hollywood's psychological approach during challenges. "He is also at times trying to get into your head where he's just stood at the end of the bench staring at you as you're doing something that's quite key to the integrity of your challenge, which isn't ideal," Edgell explained. Drawing comparisons between Hollywood and fellow judge Prue Leith, he noted a clear dynamic: "I would definitely say there's good cop, bad cop, and I know which one was which."
A Supportive Mentor Despite Tough Exterior
Despite Hollywood's formidable on-screen persona, Edgell insisted that the judge is genuinely kind. "Paul's actually really nice. He does offer golden bits of advice, and he genuinely does want you to do well," he said. Edgell's comments paint a picture of a judge who balances tough love with a sincere desire to see bakers succeed.
Nigella Lawson to Join the Show
Looking ahead, the next series of The Great British Bake Off will feature a new face in the judging lineup. Baking icon Nigella Lawson is set to welcome contestants when the show returns. The upcoming season is reportedly filming this month and is expected to air in September. Lawson announced her appointment earlier this year, stating: "I'm uncharacteristically rather lost for words right now. Of course, it's daunting to be following in the footsteps of Prue Leith and Mary Berry before her, great dames both, but I'm also bubbling with excitement. The Great British Bake Off is more than a television programme, it's a National Treasure - and it's a huge honour to be entrusted with it."
The Great British Bake Off airs on Channel 4.
