Since it first whisked its way onto our screens, The Great British Bake Off has served up a delectable mix of drama, tension, and the occasional baking disaster. But beyond the perfect sponges and impeccable pastry lies a history of scandal that has sometimes overshadowed the show's signature warmth.
From judging uproar to on-set tensions, the famous tent has witnessed its fair share of controversy. We've compiled the most memorable moments that had the nation gasping.
The Infamous Baked Alaska Meltdown
Perhaps the most iconic scandal in Bake Off history, 'Bingate' unfolded during series five. Contestant Iain Watters saw his Baked Alaska tragically melt after fellow baker Diana Beard removed it from the freezer. His decision to bin the entire creation in frustration became a national talking point, sparking a viewer frenzy and even death threats, leading to a watershed moment in how the production handles contestant welfare.
Prue Leith's Spoiler F-Bomb
In a monumental blunder, judge Prue Leith accidentally tweeted the name of the series eight winner hours before the finale aired on Channel 4. The revelation, which she later described with a panicked expletive, spoiled the surprise for countless fans and sent social media into a meltdown of its own, cementing it as one of the most talked-about TV mistakes of the year.
Custardgate: A Theft Accusation
In a shock accusation that rocked the 2023 series, contestant Maxy was accused of 'sabotage' by fellow baker Matty. The claim was that she had intentionally used his custard for her own bakes, leaving him without a key component. The dramatic allegation created an uncomfortable atmosphere in the tent, though Maxy vehemently denied any wrongdoing, calling it a simple misunderstanding.
The Curious Case of the Theft Accusation
Adding to the list of offbeat scandals, a bizarre incident emerged where a former contestant was reportedly accused of stealing a £20 note from a wallet in the famous tent. While never officially confirmed by the production, the rumour persisted, adding a layer of intrigue and mystery to the show's otherwise wholesome reputation.
These moments, while sometimes contentious, have become part of the rich tapestry of Bake Off lore. They prove that even in the most polite of baking competitions, the heat in the kitchen can sometimes lead to a full-blown firestorm.
