The Great British Bake Off 2024: Episode 5 Elimination Results

Episode 5 of season 15 of The Great British Bake Off aired on Tuesday, October 22, 2024. This season is judged by Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith, with Noel Fielding and Alison Hammond hosting the show. The series premiered in the UK on September 24, 2024, followed by its US debut on September 27, 2024.

After the conclusion of Caramel Week in the previous episode, the latest installment showcased the bakers tackling the challenges of Pastry Week. Contestants aimed to impress the panel through three distinct rounds: Signature, Technical, and Showstopper. Unfortunately, Andy Ryan’s efforts fell short, leading to his elimination.

As the fifth contestant to exit The Great British Bake Off, Andy was well-liked by both his peers and the judges due to his humor and cheerful demeanor. However, his baking results did not align with the judges’ expectations this week.

On a brighter note, Gill Howard earned the title of Star Baker this week, impressing Paul Hollywood with her Showstopper that garnered keen applause.

The Great British Bake Off: Pastry Week Highlights

The remaining eight bakers in episode 5 faced the intricate tasks of Pastry Week, which demanded the creation of precise and challenging baked items.

For the Signature challenge, each contestant was instructed to prepare twelve frangipane tarts. The Technical challenge required them to bake a traditional Greek dish known as spanakopita, while the Showstopper demanded a Paris-Brest, featuring a choux pastry dessert with a gateau, an edible stand, and at least one custard filling.

Andy encountered difficulties during the Technical challenge, as his spanakopita did not meet the desired standards. Though the flavors were praised, he faced criticism for a “soggy bottom”that left him second-to-last in that round.

During the Showstopper, Andy’s attempt at a Paris-Brest, made with toffee, went awry when his base collapsed, compelling him to start from scratch. The end product was disappointing, as Paul Hollywood noted that it lacked the essential “punch”that would make it memorable.

In spite of his attempts, Andy’s overall performance in Pastry Week was insufficient, and Dame Prue Leith remarked that he “didn’t have a good week,” which ultimately led to his exit from the competition.

Reflecting on Andy’s Journey on The Great British Bake Off

Andy (image via thegreatbritishbakeoff.co.uk)

In the wake of his exit, Andy Ryan described his time on The Great British Bake Off as a “fantastic experience”filled with “so many laughs.”He accepted his departure and realized that his baking did not come out as well as he had envisioned.

Judge Paul Hollywood acknowledged Andy’s challenges, particularly during the Technical round, where he warned contestants about the risks of achieving a soggy base in their spanakopita—a fate that unfortunately befell Andy.

Dame Prue Leith voiced her regret regarding Andy’s departure, stating that she held great affection for him, but noted, “he just didn’t have a good week.”

Andy’s Post-Elimination Thoughts on X and Future Aspirations

Following his elimination, Andy took to X to share his reflections and extend his gratitude to the show and its supporters. He expressed that while he concluded his journey with tears, he will “certainly be baking Everlong.”

“I’m sad I never left with a handshake, Star Baker, winning Technical, or even a Paul pat,” reflected the contestant from The Great British Bake Off.

Despite not achieving his desired outcomes, Andy emphasized the incredible support he received from fans. He noted that being embraced by the “Bake Off family and amazing fans”was truly “overwhelming.”

“[It] has filled me with love and joy. From the bottom of my heart, thank you,” he expressed.

Looking forward, Andy expressed his aim to forge a career in baking, hoping to share his unique creations on social media and bring joy to others through his culinary adventures. He encouraged everyone, mechanics included, to give baking a try.

“Hopefully I can bring some joy to people and encourage everyone, even mechanics, to bake.”

The Great British Bake Off 2024 will continue next week with more eliminations and fresh challenges. Viewers can catch the action every Tuesday on Channel 4 as the bakers face new culinary trials.

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