As a tribute to Cal Wilson, who passed away before The Great Australian Bake Off season was finished, Mediaweek has spoken to the judges and producers of the series about the much-loved TV host. The series is hosted by comedians Natalie Tran and the late Cal Wilson. Season seven of The Great Australian Bake Off sees 12 amateur baking enthusiasts put through a series of challenges over 10 weeks. The Great Australian Bake Off Season 7 will premiere on Wednesday, 18th September at 8.30pm AEST on Foxtel and Binge, with episodes dropping weekly at 8.30pm AEST on both platforms.
Remembering Cal Wilson
It’s been just over 12 months since The Great Australian Bake Off wrapped its 2023 season. The show’s return this year is tinged with bittersweet emotion, as it marks the final appearance of beloved host Cal Wilson, who tragically passed away before filming was complete. This season serves as a touching tribute to Wilson, her infectious energy, and the profound impact she had on the Bake Off family.
“Cal was always bringing her unique sparkle and sunshine to set. She was everyone’s friend and genuinely took time to get to know everyone. She would always want to support crew members in their passions and would invite us to go and see a show or a play or production that someone was working on to support them,” shared Darren Purchese, one of the judges. “Cal was always generous with gifting and would leave thoughtful gifts to people and was always the person rallying round to get us to chip in for a birthday pressie or thank you to someone in production. Personally, she supported me and my passions and helped me in front of the camera with line learning tips and to hear my crummy puns.”
Rachel Khoo, the other judge, also spoke fondly of Wilson’s presence on set. “There were so many things I looked forward to when working with Cal. Her boundless energy and infectious positivity were constants, no matter the weather or how long the day had been. She always had a way of brightening up the room and finding the silver lining in every situation.”
“I’ll never forget meeting her for the first time. She was the ultimate gift-giver, and it was clear she had a real knack for it. Just after I had a baby, she gifted me a set of baby bibs with vibrant New Zealand animals – all bright and colourful. Because that’s Cal, she was always wearing something bright, always colourful and never in black. That really kind of said something about her personality – she was always upbeat, always bright,” Khoo added.
Natalie Tran, Wilson’s co-host, described the dynamic they shared on set, highlighting Wilson’s comedic timing and genuine warmth. “Every morning Cal would have a joke ready to go for when we were presented with our earpieces. They come in a tiny box and for the first season we worked together Cal would pretend it was an engagement ring whenever it was presented to her. She would say things like ‘I think we’re rushing it!’ or be shocked with a hand over her heart,” said Tran. “At the season finale she got on her knee and presented a toy engagement ring and I thought that was brilliant. This last season she would pretend it was a tiny box of chocolates and was saying things like ‘Oh! Hazelnut’ or ‘I really shouldn’t, I’m on a diet.’
“I looked forward to whatever she’d come up with every day and never wanted to miss it. She was a natural performer and contributed so much positivity and fun to the set. The Queen of Improv.”
Wendy Moore, Executive Director, Entertainment Content and Channels, Foxtel, also shared her sentiments on Wilson’s impact. “What drew us all to Cal Wilson immediately was her unique mix of warmth, energy and kindness. She had such an incredibly quick wit, and she was so excited about being in the Bake Off shed. She loved baking, and she loved all the bakers, her natural charm and relatable presence immediately put the bakers at ease, and we knew she would really connect with our audience. Cal brought a fresh, comedic flair to the show, perfectly complementing the warmth and expertise of our judges,” said Moore. “She just kicked it out of the park in her role – she exceeded our expectations and helped create a new Bake Off family. Her quick humour and heartfelt interactions with the bakers added an extra layer of joy to the series, making it an absolute delight to watch. We are incredibly grateful for the time we had with Cal and the magic she brought to the shed. We miss her dearly.”
A New Batch of Bakers Enters the Bake Off Shed
The Great Australian Bake Off is set to return tonight, showcasing 12 new bakers who will step into the iconic Bake Off shed to compete under the watchful eyes of judges Rachel Khoo, a global culinary figure, and Australia’s celebrated pastry expert Darren Purchese. Comedians Natalie Tran and the late Cal Wilson take up hosting duties, with Wilson’s final appearance across four episodes marking a poignant moment for fans and cast alike.
This year’s group of bakers is particularly eclectic, featuring talents like Adrian Barila, a 28-year-old theatre performer whose Italian roots inspire his culinary creations, and Jaden Briggs, a Gunai Kurnai and Yorta Yorta man who incorporates bush tucker into his bakes. Other standout contestants include Laurina Bowlen, a 36-year-old designer of 1950s-style dresses, known for her striking fondant cake sculptures. The lineup also includes bakers from diverse cultural backgrounds, including the Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Zimbabwe, all bringing their unique experiences to the competition.
Over the course of 10 weeks, these home bakers from around the country will face various baking challenges, testing their creativity and skill as they prepare cakes, desserts, biscuits, breads, and pastries, all in pursuit of the title of Australia’s best baker.
A Season of Baking Brilliance and Heartfelt Memories
The judges, Rachel Khoo and Darren Purchese, expressed their excitement for the upcoming season, highlighting the impressive talent and creativity on display. “This season of The Great Australian Bake Off is an absolute treat for the senses. From inventive flavour combinations to breathtaking presentation, each episode is packed with surprises. I can’t wait for everyone to experience the magic we’ve created in the Bake Off shed,” said Khoo.
Purchese echoed this sentiment, “I’m beyond excited for everyone to see our new season – the level of talent in the Bake Off shed is simply extraordinary. We have such a diverse group of bakers this year, each bringing their own unique flair and background to the table. The challenges are tougher, the creations are more innovative, and the passion in that shed is truly inspiring. It’s going to be a thrilling ride for viewers from start to finish!”
Natalie Tran highlighted the personal significance of the new season, which she views as a tribute to Wilson. “This year, Bake Off holds a special place in our hearts and allows us to truly celebrate Cal. This season is a tribute to her memory, the incredible talent of our bakers, and the genuine camaraderie that makes the show so special.”
The Great Australian Bake Off promises to retain the same warmth, camaraderie, and humour that fans have come to love in previous instalments, along with baking tips viewers can take home. It is a show that brings together a diverse group of people, united by their love of baking and their shared memories of Cal Wilson. This season, the show will not only be a celebration of the artistry of baking, but also a heartwarming tribute to a remarkable woman whose infectious spirit will continue to inspire audiences for years to come.
