In an era before swipe-left dating apps dominated, a pioneering couple who found love on the iconic television show Blind Date have shared the heartfelt secrets behind their remarkable 34-year marriage.
The Televised Romance That Captivated Millions
Sue and Alex Tatham made television history as the first couple to meet on the ITV programme and subsequently tie the knot. Their wedding, a major national event, was broadcast to an audience of approximately 17 million viewers in 1991.
The pair first appeared on the popular dating show in 1988, hosted by the legendary Cilla Black. Speaking to BBC Breakfast, they revealed their initial motivation for applying was simply "for a laugh" and to see the inner workings of television production.
"I was quite intrigued if it was as glamorous as it came across on the television," Sue recalled. "But no, it wasn't actually. But, delighted to meet a man and delighted that he was the man I married. Who knew!"
The Foundation of a Lasting Partnership
When asked to explain the longevity of their relationship, Sue pointed to two fundamental principles. "Open honesty is the best thing. And be kind," she advised.
Alex elaborated on the core values that have sustained their partnership. "We found we had plenty in common," he said. "I think that when you grow together, as any couple will, you'll find that actually you begin to share a set of values. Once you have someone with a similar set of values, boyfriend or girlfriend, no matter how you meet, that's a really good basis for any relationship."
Family, Fun and Frequent Affection
Alex identified a "love of family" as another critical component of their happy life together. He emphasised the importance of "the caring of every part of the family and friends", alongside "ambitions to get on in life" and "the joy of going out and having a good time."
His admiration for his wife remains undimmed after more than three decades. "She is sensitive and kind, a wonderful mother and still extremely beautiful," he shared. "In fact most people fall in love with her, so it wasn't hard for me. I am just lucky to have picked her."
The couple also stressed the ongoing importance of verbal affection in their daily lives. "To this day, we say we love each other a lot to each other – and still do," Alex confirmed.
As a precursor to modern dating shows like First Dates, Blind Date originally ran on ITV from 1985 to 2003. After a reboot presented by Paul O'Grady, the beloved series is poised for a comeback on the streaming service Disney+, introducing a new generation to its unique matchmaking charm.
