‘The Great British Bake Off’ contestant Dawn Hollyoak has died aged 61.
Her family made the heartbreaking announcement on the Hollyoak Instagram account on Friday, sharing the news “with heavy hearts”.
“Dawn was not only a wonderfully talented baker, but above all an extraordinary mother, grandmother, wife and friend,” the statement read. “Dawn passed away peacefully surrounded by her family. She will always be missed, but we promise to continue her baking legacy!”
The cause of death has not been released.
Hollyoak, a former IT manager who appeared on the baking show in 2022, has been hailed as a “beautiful soul” and “a joy” by friends, family and fans.
“I’m so sorry to hear this, sending my love to the family, lovely lady x,” wrote Paul Hollywood, one of the show’s judges.
“I will miss my friend terribly, a beautiful and talented woman inside and out. Take flight my friend, life will not be the same without you,” commented Carole Edwards, another contestant from the same season of Hollyoak. “Sending all my love to the family.”
“This is devastating news,” wrote Giuseppe Dell’Anno, the 2021 season winner. “I only met Dawn once, but I was blown away by her joyful personality and infectious smile. She will be greatly missed, but will live on forever in the hearts of those who loved her.”
As her bio on the show’s official website describes it, Hollyoak loved “the challenge of an illusion cake” – “the more impossible it seemed, the better” – and enjoyed “wacky and intricate designs” to showcase her creativity.
“She prides herself on her steady hand and attention to detail, especially when it comes to the intricacy required for the lace patterns on the cookies,” the bio continues. “Her favorite flavors are lemon, salted caramel, and anything nutty.”
Hollyoak, from Bedfordshire, England, was eliminated from the baking competition series during Halloween week, according to People.
“I really don’t want to shed any tears about it because it was the most incredible experience of my life, one of the best experiences of my life,” she said at the time. “I’m really, really proud of what I did. I had a great time, really had a great time.”
Hollyoak is survived by her three children, two stepchildren and four grandchildren.
Gn entert
News Source : nypost.com
