The Great British Bake Off 2026: Yannis – Age, Job, Q&A

Age: 28

From: London

Job: Paediatric Doctor

How did you react when you found out you would be taking part in this year’s show?
“There are some things in life which we dream of and feel it’s impossible to accomplish, going into the tent was one of those things for me. My mum would always say that if what you are dreaming of is possible to achieve on earth and others are doing it then why couldn’t it be you too? Those words from mum were echoing in my mind as I received that call that I was cast for this year’s series. Along with of course disbelief and thinking it was a prank call and then the sheer excitement which no words can accurately describe.”

How was it having Nigella as part of the show?
“It was incredibly special. I was actually gifted one of Nigella’s recipe books for my birthday at university, just as I’d decided to take my baking more seriously. Never in a million years did I imagine that a few years later I’d be standing in the Bake Off tent, having her judge my bakes and to tell her just how much she’d inspired me. It was a real full-circle moment!”

Was it surreal meeting Alison and Noel for the first time?
“Completely surreal. You’ve watched them on TV for years and suddenly they’re standing in front of you while you’re trying to pretend this is all completely normal. Noel especially has this ability to appear beside your bench, say something utterly bizarre, and disappear again while you’re still processing it. Alison’s laugh is one of the most iconic things I have ever experienced and witnessed in my life.”

Are there any standout memories from the first episode?
“I’ll never forget our ‘naughty corner’ — me, Shannon and Gabe on the last three benches at the back of the tent! We were all so nervous and overwhelmed, and at one point we just had this big group hug. It was such a small moment, but it made me realise we were all in this together. That’s when the Bake Off family feeling really kicked in for me.”

The Great British Bake Off returns Tuesday, September 22 at 8pm on Channel 4.