Dismayed Great British Bake Off viewers urged bosses to change up the format of the show, as the first contestant left tonight.
The long-running show returned this evening and it was former charity director Will who was given the boot, as a fresh group of amateur bakers were put to the test in cake week.
The opening episode of the Channel 4 show saw the contestants tasked with baking 12 signature mini sandwich cakes, a classic red velvet technical and a showstopper inspired by a home special to them. The programme was once again hosted by Matt Lucas and Noel Fielding.
Will, 45, from London, became the first to leave the series after failing to impress judges Paul Hollywood and Dame Prue Leith with his ginger and caramel square signature and his final bake which recreated his former north London flat.
However, some viewers felt Will should have been given longer to prove himself, and suggested no contestants should leave in week one.
One person wrote on Twitter: “I really thought will had so much potential… why do they have to send someone home in week one. just bring back the two go in one week thing :(((((((( #GBBO.”
Another said: “I don’t think someone should leave the first week of #gbbo they need a chance.”
A third person penned: “I’d like to see the first contestant leave on the second week… not sure we saw the best of Will #GBBO.”
Paul was left unimpressed with Will's showstopper, prodding the cake and telling the baking hopeful: "You've overbaked every one!"
Will looked downcast as Paul and Prue had a taste of his creation.
"I think the chocolate could have been a bit more punchy. Love the orange but it comes down to the bake," Paul then told him.
Will nodded in agreement and sadly he was sent home first while Janusz was declared Star Baker.
After his exit, Will said: “Someone’s got to go first and obviously I’m disappointed but I’m proud to have made it.
“There’s a lovely bunch of people I’ve met and I’ve got an experience that I can definitely talk about and share. I’m proud of that.”
Janusz, 34, from Brighton, was the first to be awarded the coveted star baker title after impressing the judges with his Polish-inspired mini cakes and his extravagantly decorated showstopper of his mother’s flat and its colourful floral balcony.
After winning he said that receiving the title for cake week meant “everything to him”.
The contestants were first challenged to create 12 identical mini sandwich cakes, with whatever sponge, flavours and fillings they desired, within two hours.
Dame Prue admitted that it appeared like “quite a simple challenge”, but said what they were looking for is “a bit of originality”.
Personal assistant Janusz took inspiration from his Polish heritage for his bake which combined pistachio and cherry vodka liqueur to create his wuzetka bake.
The Great British Bake Off continues at 8pm on Tuesdays on Channel 4.
