Prue Leith has opened up about her friendship with Paul Hollywood, giving fans a glimpse into the gentler side of the often stern Bake Off judge. The beloved South African chef, who has been a fixture on the Channel 4 baking series, revealed that Paul’s on-screen persona doesn’t fully reflect the warmth he shows behind the scenes.
In a recent interview with Candis magazine, the 84-year-old culinary icon praised Paul’s deep knowledge of baking, saying, “He knows more about baking than I do, that’s for sure.” She went on to share how Paul’s tougher television image contrasts with his true character: “Paul is probably a little bit sterner on telly than he is in real life because in reality, he can be caught comforting a weeping baker. He is a kind person – I absolutely adore Paul.”
The Great British Bake Off, now a staple of British TV for over 15 years since its 2010 debut, continues to capture hearts with its combination of baking skill and friendly competition. Alongside judges Paul and Prue, contestants face challenging signature bakes and showstoppers, all under the watchful eyes of the judges and engaging hosts Noel Fielding and Alison Hammond.
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Prue also shared the bittersweet emotions involved in the competition. Speaking to Luxury London, she said, “The competitive angle makes the Bake Offs very different from most food shows. You get so fond of the bakers, and then you have to kick one off.” This part of the show, she explained, often leaves her “genuinely sad,” despite its drama making for good television.
Meanwhile, Paul Hollywood has recently revealed a surprising dislike related to baking: eating raw cake batter. On his TikTok account, he posted a video expressing confusion over why anyone would enjoy the mix, saying, “The idea of raw egg, lumps of flour and butter doesn’t appeal.” He added that he would “rather bake it” and simply “doesn’t get it.”
His 213,000 followers quickly chimed in with a range of reactions. Some reminisced about the joy of licking the bowl as a child, while others playfully challenged Paul’s viewpoint. One follower wrote, “Licking the bowl is the highlight for any child when there is baking going on! My kids love it!” Another commented, “You never did this as a child? Don’t knock it until you try it.” And one joked, “Think cake mix tastes better than the actual cake.”