Paul Hollywood, famed for his signature handshake on the Great British Bake Off, has found his gesture becoming more than just part of the Channel 4 baking competition; it’s now also making headlines among Hollywood celebrities. This iconic handshake began as a simple sign of approval from Hollywood to contestants whose creations had impressed him. During his recent appearance on ITV's Love Your Weekend with Alan Titchmarsh, which aired on December 29, he opened up about the considerable buzz surrounding his parting gesture, remarking on the reach and impact it has had even among stars like Blake Lively.
Lively, the wife of Hollywood actor and Wrexham FC owner Ryan Reynolds, took to Instagram to express her hopes of receiving Hollywood’s coveted handshake during her own baking endeavors. Paul humorously summarized the response he received by stating, "a bit over the top." He explained to Alan: "For me it was just a 'well done'. It's excitement for me - I love baking and when I see something I like it's like 'fantastic, you've done a really good job.'" This heartfelt enthusiasm is what he considers the essence of the show.
The exchange started when Lively mentioned him on her social media, indicating she hoped to impress him. “People like the Hollywood stars, Blake Lively, who’s Ryan Reynold's wife, was doing a bake on her Instagram cc'd me in and said 'I hope Paul Hollywood likes this and I get a handshake,'" Paul recounted. He responded to her with a simple handshake emoji, which she then shared on her platform, accompanied by her playful commentary on receiving his acknowledgment. He reflected, "I just find it all a bit over the top," showing his amused disbelief at the social media frenzy generated by his gesture.
Paul Hollywood’s earlier contributions to the baking world, particularly during his time on the show, have brought him significant recognition and admiration, not only from fans but also from his peers. Discussing his time on the Bake Off set, he expressed his admiration for his fellow judges, Pra Leith and the beloved Mary Berry, saying, "I'm very fond of the two Dames. I found them both unbelievable to work with, they taught me a lot as well and I just love spending time with them." The camaraderie shared among the judges is palpable and contributes to the delightful atmosphere of the show.
He humorously differentiated his social engagements with each of these prominent figures. Paul added, "The difference I suppose is I'd have a gin with Prue and a glass of white wine with Mary at the end of the day." This casual mention reflects not only Hollywood's affection for his colleagues but also sheds light on the personal relationships formed throughout their experiences on the show.
The episode of Love Your Weekend showcased not only Paul Hollywood’s charm and warmth but also paved the way for upcoming holiday festivities. Viewers were reminded of the second festive Bake Off special, set to air on January 3, which celebrates Hogmanay, featuring several former Scottish contestants returning to the tent. This much-anticipated special is expected to engage audiences and provide delicious, sweet moments of competition.
Hollywood’s presence on shows like this ensures the crossover of culinary art with celebrity culture. Perhaps it's this blending of worlds – baking and Hollywood fame – which keeps viewers intrigued and connected to the show. The charming dynamic of competition, laughter, and the occasional emotional moments serve as perfect ingredients for the program's success.
So, as viewers prepare to tune in for the latest seasonal festivities on the Great British Bake Off, it's clear Paul Hollywood’s handshake – which started as mere appreciation – has become symbolic of the joy, community, and even celebrity admiration intertwined with the delightful art of baking. The show continues to create bonds not only through pastries and tarts but also through laughter, respect, and perhaps even the faint echo of Hollywood star power sinking its sweet fangs deep within the beloved tent.