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Oliver Hudson Will Host an 'Awe-Inspiring' Gingerbread Land Competition Show -- with Joanna Gaines as Guest Judge!

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, October 6th 2025 at 13:27 GMT by People
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Oliver Hudson to Host New “Gingerbread Land” Competition Show, With Joanna Gaines Joining as Guest Judge

People.com’s latest entertainment scoop reveals that Food Network’s rising baking star Oliver Hudson is set to take on the mantle of host for an exciting new holiday‑season competition called “Gingerbread Land.” In a delightful twist, the show will feature Joanna Gaines, the beloved “Fixer Upper” partner, as a guest judge—an announcement that has already got fans of both baking and home‑makeover shows buzzing with anticipation.

The Host Who’s Been Baking His Way into Our Hearts

Oliver Hudson, 27, first caught national attention as the charismatic host of “The Great American Bake Off,” which has become one of Food Network’s most popular competitive baking series. A former film and theater student turned culinary enthusiast, Oliver’s infectious enthusiasm and knack for storytelling have made him a fan favorite. According to a People.com profile on Hudson, the 2023 Food Network series showcased his talent for making the high‑stakes world of competitive baking feel like a friendly, family‑friendly challenge. The new “Gingerbread Land” project promises to harness that same energy—and a dash of holiday magic.

Joanna Gaines: From Living Rooms to Gingerbread Rooms

Joanna Gaines—known worldwide as the creative mastermind behind HGTV’s “Fixer Upper”—has a track record of turning ordinary spaces into extraordinary homes. Her foray into the world of competitive baking isn’t entirely new either. In the past, she has served as a judge on other food‑related programming, and she’s no stranger to the artistry required to build something beautiful out of a humble gingerbread cookie. Her participation is highlighted in a recent People.com feature that followed her journey from the first “Fixer Upper” pilot to becoming a household name in home décor. In “Gingerbread Land,” Joanna’s role will be to bring a design‑centric perspective to the judging panel, ensuring that the aesthetic of each gingerbread creation is as impressive as its structural integrity.

The Show Concept: A Sweet Competition with a Twist

At its core, “Gingerbread Land” is a high‑octane competition where teams of bakers will race against the clock to craft elaborate gingerbread houses, structures, and scenes—each designed to tell a story or showcase holiday cheer. Though details about the exact number of contestants or the time limits are still under wraps, the format will likely echo the familiar structure of “The Great American Bake Off” while adding its own festive flair.

According to the press release that accompanied the People.com announcement, each episode will culminate in a judging session featuring Oliver Hudson as the host, Joanna Gaines as a special guest judge, and a rotating panel of culinary experts. While the primary criteria will focus on creativity, construction, and taste, the show will also place a heavy emphasis on the visual appeal of each gingerbread creation—a factor where Joanna’s expertise is expected to shine.

Production Details and Broadcast Timing

“Gingerbread Land” is slated to film on the Food Network’s main studio lot, with additional on‑location shoots in scenic Californian settings to provide a natural backdrop for the holiday festivities. While the production team has not yet announced a premiere date, insiders speculate that the show will debut in the lead‑up to the holiday season, possibly in early December. This timing would dovetail nicely with Food Network’s larger holiday programming slate, which also includes “Christmas Baking Championship” and “The Great American Bake Off: Holiday Edition.”

Why Fans Are Excited

The combination of Oliver Hudson’s playful hosting style and Joanna Gaines’s design sensibilities creates a compelling formula for both baking aficionados and design buffs. The show promises a celebration of creativity that transcends the kitchen—an opportunity to see ordinary ingredients transformed into whimsical, edible works of art. Fans of Oliver’s previous shows will find comfort in his familiar presence, while Joanna’s participation is sure to attract viewers who appreciate the intersection of culinary skill and aesthetic design.

Moreover, People.com’s coverage of the announcement underscores a broader trend in the industry: the blending of food competition shows with lifestyle programming. As Food Network expands its holiday lineup, “Gingerbread Land” stands out as a show that’s as much about community and creativity as it is about competition. By inviting a figure like Joanna Gaines—who embodies the idea of turning spaces into stories—the show promises to deliver a narrative that goes beyond the screen.

Looking Ahead

As the Food Network community gears up for the upcoming holiday season, “Gingerbread Land” represents a fresh, festive addition to the network’s competitive lineup. With Oliver Hudson’s engaging hosting and Joanna Gaines’s design expertise, the show promises to be an entertaining mix of culinary skill, artistic vision, and holiday spirit.

Stay tuned to People.com for updates on the show’s premiere date, contestant line‑ups, and behind‑the‑scenes glimpses as the production team brings this sweet vision to life. Whether you’re a seasoned baker, a design enthusiast, or simply looking for a new holiday tradition, “Gingerbread Land” is poised to become a must‑watch event that turns ordinary holiday baking into an unforgettable celebration.