Great British Bake Off's Nikki confirms she is NOT returning after mum's death as fans call for her to appear in 2027
Nikki has written a letter to viewers of the showGreat British Bake Off 2026 star Nikki has confirmed she will not be returning to the tent following her mum’s death.
Nikki was seen making a very early exit in last week’s show, with viewers initially wondering what had happened.
It was Bread Week, but Nikki had to leave for “family reasons” before she had even presented her Signature bake to judges Nigella Lawson and Paul Hollywood.
At the end of the show, all became clear. Channel 4 announced that Nikki’s mother Joyce had tragically died.
Nikki has now revealed that she did not return to the tent to continue competing in the remainder of the series.
Great British Bake Off’s Nikki confirms she will not return
Nikki took to social media before tonight’s episode of The Great British Bake Off airs (Tuesday October 20, 2026). It is Dessert Week in the tent, but fans have been unsure whether Nikki returns for it.
But in a heartfelt letter to viewers, the budding baker has confirmed she bowed out of the series completely following her mum Joyce’s death.
Nikki wrote: “Oh boy, what an emotional ride. I have had the best time, the best time, in the famous tent. It was what I expected and a whole lot more.
“I came into the tent knowing I had to have fun, take the bad with the good and the good with the bad. All of this happened – I loved every second of it.
“If you were thinking about applying, don’t waste time procrastinating – take the leap and just go for it. You won’t regret it.”
Nikki continued: “My time in the tent was cut short. My beautiful mama was very sick, she passed away.
“Mama Joycey knew about my progression. She was super proud of me and couldn’t stop beaming with joy. She told me to keep going…
“I learned so much for her and also from my amazing fellow bakers, Nigella and Paul. Would I do it all again? (In Danni’s words) Absolutely-friggin-lutely.”
Nikki signed off: “Love and light, Nikki.”
Great British Bake Off fans call for Nikki to be brought back
With the realisation that Nikki will not appear in the remainder of this year’s Great British Bake Off, fans have made a plea. It’s been suggested that GBBO bosses should give Nikki another chance to compete in the 2027 series.
Junior Bake Off star Zak Travess reshared Nikki’s letter and wrote: “Petition to bring back @Nikkibakesmelaugh next season!”
Viewers have also been saying the same thing on The Great British Bake Off’s official Facebook page, where Nikki’s letter was also shared.
“Sorry for your loss GBBO please bring Nikki back for next year’s season, if she wants to. She did an amazing job in the tent and brought positive energy to the competition,” one wrote.
Another added: “GBBO… have her back in the future, please! I’m so sorry for your loss.”
A third penned: “I had no idea she left. I thought she was just gone that week. She should get a fair chance again next season!”
And someone else added: “Next series – get her back, please!”
TVGuide has contacted Channel 4 for comment.
