Casting

Babs is a retired dinner lady from East London in her 60s. She brings a no-nonsense, humorous attitude to the tent, often lightening the mood with her witty remarks and candid nature. Despite her tough exterior, Babs has a big heart and deeply cares about the people around her. 

Ben is a widowed policeman in his 30s or 40s from Bristol, raising his young daughter, Lily, on his own. He joined the competition reluctantly, after Lily secretly applied for him, hoping to help him heal from the loss of his wife. Ben is quiet and modest, often deflecting praise and crediting his late wife for his baking skills. His relationship with Lily is central to his character.

Dezza is a laid-back, vegan hipster in his 30s who lives on a canal boat. He brings a unique, eco-conscious approach to baking, often substituting traditional ingredients with plant-based alternatives, much to the confusion of the other contestants. Dezza is outspoken about environmental issues, and his character provides comic relief with his quirky personality and unconventional lifestyle. He isn’t afraid to speak his mind, which sometimes puts him at odds with the judges, especially when his bakes don’t always go according to plan.

Francesca is a primary school teacher in her 30s who moved from Italy to Bognor. She is passionate about traditional Italian baking and brings the flavors and recipes passed down from her Nonna to the competition. Francesca has a sweet and gentle personality, but beneath her calm exterior is a fierce determination to succeed.

Gemma is a carer from Blackpool in her 30s. She lacks confidence and often feels out of place among the other contestants, constantly doubting her abilities. Gemma joined the competition as a backup contestant, which adds to her feelings of inadequacy. She has a deep emotional backstory, having cared for her late mother, and uses baking as a way to cope with her grief. 

Hassan is a 17-year-old sixth-form student from Wembley, brimming with youthful energy and confidence. He is the youngest contestant, often bringing a carefree, rebellious attitude to the competition. Hassan is a self-taught baker who prides himself on not following traditional recipes and instead relying on his intuition. Despite his bravado, Hassan cares deeply about proving himself and making his family proud.

Izzy is a 21-year-old Cambridge University student from the Home Counties. She is highly competitive and ambitious, determined to win the competition at any cost. Izzy comes from a privileged background and isn’t afraid to let others know about her upper-class lifestyle. Her baking style is sophisticated, and she approaches the competition with a cutthroat mentality, believing that she is destined for success. Beneath her confidence, there may be hints of vulnerability.

Russell is an aeronautical engineer in his 50s from Yorkshire. He is meticulous, organized, and methodical, bringing a scientific approach to baking. Russell is a perfectionist, using spreadsheets and precise measurements to ensure his bakes are executed flawlessly. He often talks about his husband, Mario, and his home life, bringing warmth to his otherwise logical demeanor. Despite his calm and collected nature, Russell can be a bit awkward socially, but he is well-liked by the other contestants for his kind and supportive attitude.

Jim and Kim are the hosts of The Great British Bake Off and provide much of the show’s comic relief. They share a lighthearted and often silly dynamic, making witty comments and entertaining the contestants and audience alike. Their playful banter helps ease the tension in the tent, and their humorous antics set the tone for the competition. Throughout the show, they engage in fun skits, serving as breaks in the TV show.

Pam Lee is a glamorous celebrity baker in her 70s or 80s, known for her sharp wit and charm. She is a national treasure who has seen it all in the world of baking, and her vast experience makes her a formidable judge. Pam is warm and approachable, often offering humorous critiques to the bakers, but she also has high standards.

Phil Hollinghurst is a handsome Liverpudlian baker in his 50s. Known for his stern demeanor, Phil is famous for his handshakes, which signify excellence in baking. He takes his role as a judge very seriously, and his sharp eye for detail makes him a tough critic. However, he has a softer side, revealed in his interactions with Pam and Babs. 

Lily is Ben’s nine-year-old daughter. She plays an important role in her father’s storyline, having secretly applied for him to be on the show in an effort to help him move on after her mother’s death. Lily is wise beyond her years and provides emotional support to Ben, helping him rediscover his love for life and baking.