GBBO Contestants Are Actually Contracted For 2 Shows - Here's Why

Suppose you're a fan of "The Great British Bake Off," just like us. In fact, this feel-good baking competition is so popular in the U.S. that the show's judge, Dame Prue Leith, is surprised that Americans recognize her now and tell her that they love GBBO (known as "The Great British Baking Show" in the U.S.). And what shocks Americans the most is the fact that there is no cash prize. You just win the season and get the iconic GBBO trophy (per Digital Spy). A whopping 13 seasons are already behind us, and Town And Country Magazine reports that the show will return in 2023 for Season 14. While the deadline has passed to apply for a spot on the upcoming season, there's always another year — and we have no doubt that we'll see Season 15.

If you've ever thought about being a contestant on this popular baking show, you need to know some harsh truths about the selection process. Insider talked to some of the past contestants, including Ali Imdad, from Season 4, who said that the application form is very "lengthy," while Rav Bansal, from Season 7, said it's, "the longest application form in the history of forms." Sounds intimidating? If you do manage to get in, you'll need to be prepared for not just one show, but two.

On the official "The Great British Bake Off" website, you can check out the application form and all the rules associated with the show. Among the rules are some interesting tidbits, such as the fact that you can't be employed anywhere as a baker, chef, or cook — which is understandable because this is the competition for the best amateur bakers in the country. Once you're in, obviously, you're ready to be on GBBO on all the days you're asked to appear. 

But contestants who are signed on must also appear on another show besides GBBO: "The Great British Bake Off: An Extra Slice." As you can imagine, it's a spin on GBBO, in which host Jo Brand talks to different celebrities who give their take on the show, as well as the latest bakers who were recently sent home from the show's large white tent. So far, some stars who appeared on "An Extra Slice" include Paul Hollywood, Judi Love, Matt Lucas, and Jonathan Ross (via Channel 4). For those leaving the show, it's not a bad way to say so-long and drop some extra GBBO tea.