After facing accusations of racism, “The Great British Bake Off,” a popular UK cooking program, has decided to eliminate nationality-themed episodes in its impending 14th season.
In previous seasons, the program featured episodes in which amateur bakers competed by preparing dishes from various national cuisines, including “Japan Week” in 2020, “German Week” in 2021, and “Mexican Week” in 2022. However, viewers pointed out that many of the dishes produced in these segments were not authentic representations of the featured cuisines, eliciting criticism.
During the “Mexican Week” episode, co-hosts Noel Fielding and Matt Lucas received criticism for donning sombreros, using maracas, and attempting Latino accents. Some viewers were also offended by the presenters’ jokes, with Fielding stating, “I don’t think we should make Mexican jokes because people will get upset,” and Lucas responding, “Not even Juan?”
These incidents sparked outrage on social media, with viewers condemning the program for bigotry and insensitivity. Some claimed that the production team lacked interest and conducted inadequate research.
Kieran Smith, the show’s executive producer, acknowledged the complaints about insensitivity and bigotry in recent seasons in response to the criticism. He admitted guilt by declaring, “I accept responsibility for the culinary complaint and the theme weeks. The world has evolved, and the jest fell hollow.
Consequently, the forthcoming season of “The Great British Bake Off” will not include any episodes with a focus on nationality. Cakes, Biscuits, Bread, Patisserie, Chocolate, and Party Cakes are among the themes that will be featured in the reality show’s return to more traditional programming.
The 14th season of “The Great British Bake Off” features a diverse group of 12 amateur contestants, including the show’s first deaf contestant, demonstrating the show’s longstanding commitment to diversity. In addition, the season features Alison Hammond, the show’s first-ever presenter of color, signifying a milestone for diversity in the series.
Hammond commented on her new position, saying, “I assume that’s a momentous occasion. My mother would be extremely delighted. However, it would be great to reach a point where I am simply known as Alison.