Great British Bake Off 2026 star Nikki was forced to leave the tent during Bread Week following the tragic death of her mum, Joyce.
Nikki had just finished her Signature Challenge bake when she suddenly disappeared from the tent.
With Nikki unable to present her garlic bread herself, host Alison Hammond stepped in to take her dish to judges Paul Hollywood and Nigella Lawson.
Great British Bake Off’s Nikki had to abandon Bread Week due to a ‘family reasons’ (Credit: Channel 4)
Nikki was still missing when the remaining 2026 bakers took on the Technical Challenge.
And as the contestants reached the Showstopper, she had yet to return.
The heartbreaking reason for Nikki’s sudden departure was revealed at the end of the episode, when a tribute confirmed that her mum had died.
After the credits rolled, a photo of Nikki with her mum appeared alongside a message reading: “With deepest condolences to Nikki and her family following the loss of her mum Joyce.”
Great British Bake Off’s Nikki leaves tent during Bread Week
Nikki started the garlic bread Signature Challenge with the other eight contestants, working on her Cheesy Pesto Tear and Share Garlic Bread.
However, when the time was up, Nikki was nowhere to be seen.
Alison explained her absence to Paul and Nigella, saying: “Now unfortunately, the lovely Nikki had to go home due to family reasons. So I’m going to step in.”
The presenter then handed over Nikki’s plate for the judges to sample.
Nigella was impressed by its appearance, remarking: “It looks gorgeous.”
Paul also praised the flavour and bake, saying: “The garlic is really good. I like the flavour. It’s baked well.It just needs to be more open and proved but it’s baked well.”
Alison replied: “She’ll be pleased.”
Next up was the Technical Challenge, with the bakers tasked with making eight flatbreads filled with roasted grapes and blue cheese.
Nikki was absent for that challenge, too, and didn’t return in time for the Bread Week Showstopper.
Alison Hammond had to present Nikki’s garlic bread to the judges (Credit: Channel 4)
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