“The Great British Baking Show” (known in the U.K. as “The Great British Bake Off”) kicked off its 10-episode Season 16 on Sept. 5 on Netflix, with new episodes dropping weekly on Fridays. The series has charmed viewers on both sides of the Atlantic for over a decade with its low-stakes format, cozy visuals, and sugar-filled challenges.
Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith return as judges, joined by hosts Alison Hammond (ITV’s “This Morning”) and Noel Fielding (“The Mighty Boosh”), as a new group of amateur bakers steps into the iconic white tent.
Although this season is already underway, casting for future installments and similar competition shows is always active. Here’s what you need to know to get in the mix.
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Each season, 12 amateur bakers from across the U.K. take on weekly challenges. One contestant is then named Star Baker, while another is eliminated, all leading up to the crowning of Britain’s Best Amateur Baker.
“The Great British Bake Off” premiered on BBC Two in August 2010. Then, in 2014, the competition first aired in the U.S. on PBS under the title “The Great British Baking Show.” Pillsbury holds the trademark to the term “Bake-Off”—the Pillsbury Bake-Off cooking contest takes place every year—and the company has not released the rights for the show to use it.
- Paul Hollywood as a judge
- Prue Leith as a judge
- Noel Fielding as a host
- Alison Hammond as a host
- 12 new amateur bakers from across the U.K.
More than 16,000 aspiring bakers apply each year, but only a handful make it through phone interviews, on-camera tests, and baking challenges. According to People, producer Sam Beddoes said, “The baking is 100% the most important thing, not personality.” Talent and authenticity matter more than theatrics.
Want to stand out in a reality TV audition? Here’s a good place to start:
- How to Get on Reality TV
- What Top Reality Show Casting Directors Really Look For
- A CD on What to Know About Getting Cast on a Reality Competition Show
“The Great British Baking Show” is currently casting for Season 17, and you can apply directly via Backstage here.
Those hoping to become a Star Baker can also apply directly on the show’s casting page or by emailing applyforbakeoff@loveproductions.co.uk.
You can also check out more casting opportunities here:
Reality TV auditions often begin with a strong self-tape. These guides can help you get camera-ready to make the most of your first impression:
- You Don’t Need a Lot of Money for Great Self-Tapes
- Essential Equipment for Self-Tape Auditions
- A Casting Director’s Tips for Improving Your Self-Tape
