Great British Bake Off star dies as Paul Hollywood leads tributes
Dawn Hollyoak, who was the sixth baker to leave the tent in the 2022 series of the beloved baking show, has died at the age of 61, her family have confirmed
Great British Bake Off favourite Dawn Hollyoak has died. The ex-IT manager, who captured hearts on the 2022 series and was the sixth to depart from the iconic tent, was 61.
Her loved ones paid tribute to her on Instagram, stating: "It's with a heavy heart we announce the passing of our star baker Dawn.
"Not only a wonderfully talented baker but first and foremost an amazing mother, grandmother, wife and friend. Dawn passed away peacefully surrounded by her family. We will miss her forever, but promise to continue her baking legacy!"
Details regarding the cause of Dawn's death remain unknown.
Bake Off judge Paul Hollywood shared his heartfelt sympathies, commenting on the post: "I'm so sorry to hear that, send my love to the family a lovely lady x," reports the Mirror.
Carole Edwards, who left the competition just one week before Dawn, shared her grief, commenting: "I will miss my friend terribly, a beautiful and talented lady inside and out.
"Fly high my friend, life just won't be the same without you. Sending all my love to the family. Xx."
George Aristidou, a fellow Bake Off alumnus from 2021, also expressed his condolences, writing: "We never did get to make them koupes Dawn...Absolutely gutted to hear this very sad news. RIP and my condolences to all your family and friends x."
Bake Off 2021 champion Giuseppe Dell'Anno shared: "This is devastating news... I only met Dawn once, but I was blown away by her joyous personality and her infectious smile.
"She will be sorely missed, but will live in the heart of those who loved her forever!"
Syabira Yusoff was crowned the winner of the Great British Bake Off series 13, which also featured finalists Abdul Rehman Sharif and Sandro Farmhouse.