The Great British Bake Off

Unlike typical American shows where the chefs are at each other's throats, screaming, fighting, competing in stupid challenges, this is just calm and relaxing. They all respect each other, the hosts actually know what they are talking about (Masterclass), and it's a simple concept. Three challenges and a clock, that's it.

American here, a wonderful calm show. Comparing the show to the different American versions this is so much better. The contestants are just regular people and don't look like a casting director walked into a modeling agency asking 'who likes to bake.' There's no schtick with the contestants personalities, they are who they are and production doesn't force some ridiculous image on them to carry through a season. The judges aren't yelling at anyone but giving helpful advice. I LOVE the Technical Challenge where they get scant information and figure it out. I don't think the show needs a host much less TWO hosts who don't add anything and they aren't funny at all. No offense, they're just not needed. All in all a great show, so pleasant and the natural friendliness isn't forced.

I've loved most of the British shows that have made it across the water, and this one is exceptional! I love that they don't have disguised 'professional' bakers, just people who love this as a hobby; they do this as a true 'labor of love'!

Another aspect is the judging. They don't hide catty commentary or mean-spirited comebacks in the 'helpful' comments they give, they're honestly decent in their feedback and don't make 'authoritarian' statements such as 'this is wrong' when it comes to the taste of an item. Rather, they might say 'I'm not as keen on (whatever), but the design is lovely'.

Such a nice diversion from the 'reality' food shows in America! Pay attention Food Network execs!!

Yep, 9 stars for a cooking show! Even I'm surprised at that. Thank you Netflix for bringing 4 seasons (series) to your U.S. audience. Please bring us more! I would love to see every episode since its inception. I had no idea Brits take their baking so seriously so this was a real eye opener. The variety of bakery items and the wide range of genuine talent among hobbyist home bakers is truly astonishing. This show has wonderful personalities in key roles, plus the contestants present us with their unflapable, always polite demeanor, along with a good deal of humor as they deal with the nerve wracking stress of their tasks. The contestants are all so engaging that it's hard for the viewer to pick a favorite from show to show. One contestant in the U.S. Series 3, Ian, could have his own tv show, he was that entertaining. Be prepared to get a craving for something sweet when you watch this.

I love watching this show! I like that everyone is being treated respectfully and they're not trying to make a drama out of contestants' personal lives or try to up the pressure with stressful music, meanness or shouting or things like that.