The fourth episode of ‘Das große Promibacken’ brought unexpected drama as Bruce Darnell faced a severe injury during one of the baking challenges. This season, which has been airing since February 19, 2025, features ten prominent candidates competing to prove their skills before judges Bettina Schliephake-Burchardt and Christian Hümbs.
Die-hard fans of the show witnessed the intensity ramp up as contestants took on three culinary challenges, first baking either sweet or savory strudels. Then came the dreaded technical challenge: creating perfect Nussecken, and finally, the pressure peaked with the grand task of making a stunning fruit Ombré cake.
Tragedy struck when Bruce Darnell, known for his charismatic presence, suffered a gruesome accident with his blender. While working on his cake, his finger came too close to the blender, resulting in severe bleeding. The medics were called immediately, and Bruce was whisked away to the hospital. He later returned to the set with his finger stitched up, requiring 13 stitches, yet he had no Ombré cake to present to the jury.
The episode aired on March 12, 2025, and moments leading up to Bruce's injury were filled with excitement. His fellow contestants and the audience shared moments of anxiety as they watched the challenges progress. One of his peers, Senna Gammour, expressed deep concern and presence, stating, “Then we will stage a demonstration. We will take to the streets – for Bruce and his finger!”
Despite not completing the Ombré cake, Bruce made it back just before the tasting. The absence of his cake forced the judges to confront challenges of their own. Bettina Schliephake-Burchardt, upon reviewing the contestants’ work, noted, “Bruce, it’s lovely to have you back. But the fact you couldn’t bake your cake poses us with this new challenge. With one cake missing, we can’t have a fair comparison.”
After thoughtful deliberation, the jury made the shocking decision to allow all contestants to advance to the next episode. This surprising outcome means everyone maintains their chances of winning the $10,000 prize, which will be donated to charity, as well as the coveted Gold Cupcake trophy.
With the stakes higher than ever, speculation mounted about what this decision might mean for the upcoming round, particularly since only three contestants can make it to the finals.
The pressures and frustrations were palpable during the episode, especially for Bruce, who narrowly avoided another mishap with his dough moments prior during the Nussecken round, nearly forgetting it was baking away. Under the watchful guidance of host Amira Aly, he managed to get back on track. But his earlier mishaps highlighted the intense struggle of juggling many aspects under the competition's stress.
With past nonperformers eliminated, the remaining contestants—including former international soccer player Nadine Angerer, who claimed the red apron with 48 points this week—now have to reconsider strategies going forward. Nadine’s strong performance was celebrated amid whispers of who might be next to leave the competition.
Only time will tell as ‘Das große Promibacken’ continues to give viewers thrilling moments. Each week, participants bring their best and learn the harsh lessons of the baking world, where one misstep can change everything.
The competition airs every Wednesday at 8:25 PM on Sat.1 or can be streamed via Joyn. With the emotional investment from competitors and audiences alike, it’s hard to predict who will secure the ultimate prize among the resilient group willing to challenge themselves and support one another along the way.