Bake Off star Nikki leaves show after mother's death

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 14 Oct, 19:08 · Archive

Great British Bake Off contestant Nikki withdrew from the series after her mother Joyce died.

Nikki withdrew from the Great British Bake Off during Bread Week after her mother Joyce's death. The London-based baker, 50, left the tent to spend her mother's final days with her, departing after the Signature Challenge round. During the episode's credits, a tribute to Joyce was shown.

Nikki later shared the news on Instagram, describing the loss as 'sad and bittersweet'. She wrote that Joyce had 'deteriorated quite quickly' and that the family were unprepared for how rapidly things changed. She credited her mother with instilling her passion for baking from a young age, noting that this eventually led to her participation in the Bake Off competition.

Judges Paul Hollywood and Nigella Lawson acknowledged her absence during the episode, with Paul suggesting the judges would 'like to see Nikki come back' and wanted to 'give her some space'. The show continued without her, with Molly eliminated in that round.

How it is being reported

• Bake Off star Nikki reveals her mum has died after quitting show over illnessThe Great British Bake Off star Nikki paid an emotional tribute to her mum after viewers of the Channel 4 show watched her suddenly have to leave the tent on Tuesday night.The Mirror · 14 Oct, 17:57
• Bake Off star pays emotional tribute after leaving series to be with mum ‘in final days’Nikki's late mum Joyce inspired her passion for baking.Metro · 14 Oct, 12:07

In this story: Nikki · Joyce · Great British Bake Off · Channel 4 · Paul Hollywood · Nigella Lawson

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