FIRST LOOK REVIEW - The Great British Bake Off, C4
She practically skipped into the tent, giddy to get the gig and jumping up and down as she gave a double wave. Alison Hammond has slowly become the darling of UK TV, so viewers were thrilled when she was announced as Matt Lucas’ replacement on Bake Off.
“I am so excited,” she squealed, though slightly restrained as if it were her first day at big school so she wanted to behave for the teachers. There was no major fanfare for the This Morning star as the series kicked off, just a little welcome from co-host Noel Fielding, 50, and they got straight down to Cake Week.
Little has changed for the hit C4 show. Prue Leith, 83, still in her mad accessories, looked like she had a spider around her neck. Paul Hollywood, 57, was in his usual stance – hands in pockets, steely glare, a self-styled Mr Nasty who secretly likes hugs. Alison, 48, had the honour of shouting the first “BAKE” as the 12 bakers tried a vertical layer cake.
The new batch of 12 bakers are the perfect mix. From Saku, who giggled after every single interaction regardless of what was happening, to Rowan, who made himself a wedding cake for his 21st birthday and Keith, the chartered accountant who made a small poodle showstopper, all have the skill and eccentricity required.
Dan, who won Star Baker, started his rhubarb and custard cake. “I don’t like rhubarb so please don’t take offence,” said Alison as Paul dragged her away. Honesty will not be a problem here and I am here for it. At least she carries it off with her usual warmth and twinkle in her eye, unlike Paul and his zingers. “Did you sit on it?” he asked Tasha. “It looks terrible.”
Tasha, who’s deaf, got her own back while giving Alison her super cool British Sign Language name. She revealed her BSL name for Paul is the sign for “Polly like the parrot” after accidentally calling him “Pollywood”. Who’s a pretty boy then? Then they all whipped up the iconic chocolate cake from the opening titles (missing raspberry optional).
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Alison, after overly-enjoying the word “moist” in the instructions, was scolded by Matty for ramping up the pressure after saying the task was “iconic” 78 times. It was as if Alison had always been there, quipping innuendos, supporting the bakers, including first-out Amos, Star Baker Dan and giggly Saku, and riffing with Noel.
And Alison’s inhibitions collapsed like a dodgy souffle over Nicky’s Norman the Beaver showstopper. “Am I in a Carry On film?” asked Noel, after she told him: “I don’t like dry beavers.” Viewers will fall in love with her all over again.
* Bake Off, Tuesdays, C4, 8pm