The nineteenth series of The Great British Bake Off began on Monday, 23 September, featuring twelve bakers including Gloucestershire contestant Shannon. However, during the first episode’s showstopper challenge, Shannon left the baking tent due to feeling unwell.
Host Alison Hammond explained at the time that Shannon was not feeling well, while fellow contestants showed their support. New judge Nigella Lawson, who replaced Dame Prue Leith this series, stated that since Shannon had to leave on medical grounds, the fairest course was to retain all remaining bakers, meaning no one else was eliminated that week.
Shannon later disclosed on the companion show Second Helpings that she had experienced a “dicky tummy.” She took to Instagram to confirm her return to the series, sharing a glimpse of her watch party in Gloucester while encouraging fans to tune in. She said, “I hope you enjoy it!”
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On her Instagram Stories, Shannon expressed her excitement about the show’s start, saying: “Hello, I actually cannot believe the first episode is out, I hope you all loved it so much. It was so intense, I literally was on the edge of my seat the whole time. But yeah, tune in next week to watch the next episode. I hope you’ve seen on the little teaser that yeah I am back next week so yeah, get ready for it. Very exciting!”
She also praised Nigella Lawson, saying: “She was really natural to it, that was really nice. Her and Paul’s chemistry was really good. And who doesn’t love Alison and Noel?”
Before the series began, Shannon shared her anticipation for appearing on the show through social media, writing: “Words can’t describe how excited I am!” Fans responded with enthusiasm, expressing eagerness to watch her.
Following the official announcement of her participation in season 17, Shannon shared heartfelt reflections: “I’m going to be honest, I’m overwhelmed with emotions writing this. Pure happiness. Pride. And I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t freaking out while typing every word. I’ve been keeping this secret for so long, and now I finally get to scream it from the rooftops.”
She credited her husband’s encouragement for inspiring her to apply: “He’s the one who sent me the application and gently nudged me to go for it. I applied because he believed in me long before I believed in myself, and now here we are… in the tent.”
Shannon described her Bake Off journey as “the best experience of my life, filled with mental emotions, constant pinch‑me moments, and memories I’ll treasure forever. I baked my heart out, laughed until my stomach hurt, cried happy tears, and made friendships that feel like family. I’m so happy and proud to be a part of the Bake Off family. Truly.”
The Great British Bake Off is available to watch on Channel 4.