Bake Off 2018: why are viewers starting to turn against star baker Rahul?

Rahul Mandal has been, by far, the most watchable baker on The Great British Bake Off 2018.

The research scientist and baking aficionado apologises profusely whenever he receives a compliment and holds his hands up to his face in terror as Paul approaches his bakes.

Always a nervous presence in the Bake Off tent, Rahul has still proved himself to be one of the most impressive bakers on the show, with two star baker accolades to his name.

So, why are some Bake Off viewers starting to turn against the baking genius and Channel 4 meme machine?

• Who is Rahul Mandal? Meet the Great British Bake Off 2018 contestant
• Candice Brown got married and her fellow Bake Off stars gifted her 12 wedding cakes
• RadioTimes.com newsletter: get the latest TV and entertainment news direct to your inbox

https://twitter.com/BritishBakeOff/status/1044668064552415233

While many viewers love Rahul's interactions with the Bake Off judges and presenters, some are starting to feel that his bashfulness is becoming a little bit grating.

https://twitter.com/WhippetOut/status/1047206125437952002

https://twitter.com/Lou_Prime/status/1047205308605628416

https://twitter.com/PamelaJoanne94/status/1047208457588416513

https://twitter.com/irishjulie1968/status/1047210615817814017

https://twitter.com/_Amwhy/status/1047210772928110592

However, support for Rahul is still strong, with fans rooting for him to win the competition and receive the recognition he deserves.

https://twitter.com/iam_jlc/status/1047205505557520385

https://twitter.com/KMaigrot/status/1047199856610164738

https://twitter.com/ericawhite_/status/1047205056934813697

https://twitter.com/gilbylu/status/1047212841697202176

In the end, it's the judgement of Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith that matters. If Rahul continues to bake to such a stellar standard, we can definitely expect to see him in the final.

The Great British Bake Off continues on Tuesdays at 8pm on Channel 4