Get ready to dust off your Saturday night viewing habits because one of television's most beloved dating shows is preparing for a spectacular return to our screens. ITV has confirmed the revival of the iconic 80s programme Blind Date, promising to blend nostalgic charm with contemporary dating culture.
A Fresh Take on a Television Classic
The reboot will maintain the show's fundamental format that captured the nation's heart for nearly two decades. Three hopeful singles will remain hidden from view while a contestant fires questions at them, ultimately selecting their preferred match based solely on personality and conversation.
However, the producers have confirmed several modern updates to reflect today's dating landscape. The new version will embrace diversity in all its forms and incorporate contemporary dating trends that simply didn't exist during the show's original run from 1985 to 2003.
Honouring Cilla Black's Legacy
The revival carries the blessing of the late Cilla Black's family, acknowledging her irreplaceable role in making the original series such a cultural phenomenon. Black's charismatic hosting and signature catchphrases like "our Graham" became embedded in British television history.
While a new host has yet to be announced, producers have confirmed they're seeking someone who can capture that same warm, cheeky spirit that made the original so endearing to millions of viewers.
Previous Revival Attempts
This isn't the first attempt to bring Blind Date back to television. Channel 5 launched a reboot in 2017 hosted by Paul O'Grady, but despite initial enthusiasm, the series failed to capture the magic of the original and was discontinued after one season.
ITV executives believe the time is now right for a properly executed revival, citing renewed public appetite for nostalgic programming with modern sensibilities.
What to Expect from the New Format
The new Blind Date will feature:
- The classic three-singles-hidden-behind-screen format
- Contemporary questions reflecting modern dating concerns
- Diverse contestants from all backgrounds
- Follow-up segments showing how the couples fared after the show
- That same mix of romance, humour and occasional awkwardness that made the original so compelling
Production is scheduled to begin later this year, with ITV planning to premiere the revived series as part of their 2025 programming lineup. The announcement has already generated significant excitement among fans of the original and newcomers curious about this piece of television history.
As one television executive commented: "There's something timeless about the simple premise of people connecting through conversation rather than appearance. In today's swipe-right culture, that feels more refreshing than ever."
