Who left The Great Bake Off last night? Here's what happened during the first episode of series 17

Danni was among the bakers at risk during the first episode of The Great British Bake Off 2026. | Channel 4 / Patch Dolan

The Great British Bake Off has officially returned to our screens, with a dozen new bakers - and a fresh judge - having completed their first three challenges.

Nigella Lawson set the tone in her first appearance as a judge on Bake Off by asking the amateur bakers taking part in series 17 to impress with their take on a chocolate stout cake, much like her iconic Guinness chocolate cake. In addition, Lawson added a new twist to the technical challenge - coffee and walnut cake - by providing an illustrated image and the cake components, but no measurements or instructions.

Some impressive bakes emerged from the likes of Tom, Gary, and Mo, this year’s youngest contestant - and the first to be named Star Baker.

However, for other contestants there were some wobbles - quite literally. In her signature challenge, Molly’s cake took a tumble to the floor and she had to start all over again with very little time left, though her determination made a good impression on judges. Then Shannon, a 29-year-old project planner, took ill during the final challenge and ended up having to leave the tent.

It was also a rough start for Danni. Despite how she immediately endeared herself to Noel by replying to a question with “indeedaroonie”, they weren’t doing too well by the time the showstopper rolled around. Unfortunately for the 25-year-old, their vegan cake self-portrait couldn’t quite keep itself upright, meaning only a small portion was able to be served to the judges.

But who went home and who is still in the competition after episode one?

Who left Bake Off last night?

There was some stiff competition for Star Baker last night (September 22), however the contestant who would be leaving the tent seemed fairly obvious. Danni even acknowledged this to the camera after her disastrous start to the competition, fully expecting to be on the chopping block.

However, they were granted a stay of execution as no one left the Bake Off tent during the first episode of series 17.

The judges are typically quite kind when anyone can’t complete a challenge. However, this does mean that there will probably be a double elimination next week.

Where can I catch up?

The Great British Bake Off is available to stream on Channel 4’s app, with re-runs of the episode also to air at 12.10am on Thursday, September 24.

When is Bake Off next on?

Audiences will be able to tune in to the Great British Bake Off on Channel 4 from 8pm on Tuesday, September 29.

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