Introducing Tasha: The First Deaf Baker on The Great British Bake Off 2023
Get ready for the highly anticipated return of The Great British Bake Off, as it kicks off its 14th series on Tuesday, September 26. Premiering at 8:00pm on Channel 4, this season will showcase 12 talented amateur bakers, all vying for the ultimate recognition from renowned pastry chef Paul Hollywood and the chance to be crowned the winner.
But there’s a unique twist this year – for the first time ever, the show will feature a deaf contestant. In a heartwarming gesture, the presenters have taken it upon themselves to learn British Sign Language, ensuring that Tasha, our remarkable contestant, feels welcome and included. Additionally, this season will introduce popular TV personality Alison Hammond from ITV’s Good Morning, who will join the star-studded cast alongside Paul Hollywood.
So, who is Tasha, the first deaf contestant on The Great British Bake Off? Tasha Stones, a 27-year-old participation officer from Bristol, is making history as she steps into the baking tent. Accompanied by her BSL interpreter, Daryl, Tasha expressed her overwhelming emotions upon hearing the news of her selection: “When I had the Zoom call to tell me I was one of the 12, I cried. Daryl also cried. We were a mess.” The support and inclusion shown towards Tasha doesn’t end there – the presenters and judges, including newcomer Alison Hammond, have also learned the basics of British Sign Language.
While the learning process has been challenging for some, like South African TV chef Prue Leith, the network has ensured that Tasha feels supported throughout. Channel 4, who recently took over The Great British Bake Off from the BBC, recognized the importance of allowing Tasha to have her BSL interpreter, Daryl, accompany her on this momentous journey. Tasha expressed her gratitude for this gesture, stating, “It was a big moment when Noel [Fielding] introduced not only Alison but also Daryl as part of the line-up. Seeing Daryl up at the front and feeling fully part of the show was a really special moment. I couldn’t have done it without him.”
But let’s not forget the exciting addition of Alison Hammond to the cast. Fans of Good Morning Britain were thrilled to learn that their favorite presenter would be joining The Great British Bake Off. The 48-year-old This Morning presenter replaced Matt Lucas, and interestingly, her audition for the show didn’t involve any cake! Instead, producers asked Alison to engage in conversations with strangers at a garden center, testing her ability to connect with different people. Alison shared her experience, saying, “They made me interview random strangers, to obviously see if I’m good with different people. It was a weird audition.”
Don’t miss out on all the baking excitement as The Great British Bake Off returns this September. Be sure to catch Tasha, the inspirational first deaf contestant, and witness the baking brilliance of the talented amateur bakers as they compete for the ultimate prize.
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