5 mins with... Briony May Williams

She talks getting over imposter syndrome, Strictly dreams and her love for languages

Briony May Williams baking
Photo: Love Productions 2019


Celebrity chef and presenter, Briony first appeared on our TV screens in 2018 when she became a semi–finalist on Great British Bake Off, on Channel 4. Briony’s humour and warmth, coupled with her resilience and ingenuity saw her become a firm favourite with the audience.

When did your love for baking and cooking begin?

I used to bake a bit with my mum when I was a kid, but I really got into it in 2013 when I was off work on long–term sick. It was a type of therapy for me and so the love story began.

What’s your signature dish and why?

My favourite thing to cook, at the moment, is a tomato orzotto, it’s really easy to make and tastes amazing.

What’s been the best moment of your career so far?

That’s so hard to choose as I’ve been so lucky, but I think winning the Christmas Bake Off in 2019 was a really special moment.

What’s your career dream?

I’d love to do Strictly! That’s my absolute dream, all the sequins and glamour would be so much fun.

What’s been your biggest challenge?

Getting over the imposter syndrome has been a huge challenge. Feeling like I deserve to be in this career has taken a long time, but I think I’m finally there and now I can really enjoy it!

What’s your favourite thing to do when you aren’t working?

I love swimming, I only learned to swim last year but it’s become my favourite form of exercise, and I find it really clears my head.

What’s the best advice you’ve been given?

"If you don’t try, you never know!"

What makes you happy?

My family and friends, especially my nine–year–old daughter Nora, she’s my favourite human.

What’s your TV guilty pleasure?

I love rewatching my favourite shows like Gilmore Girls and New Girl. It brings me a sort of nostalgia and comfort.

Do you have any secret talents?

A lot of people don’t know I’m fluent in Spanish. I studied it at university and then taught at a secondary school for six years. Languages are my first love.

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