Television star Emily Atack is being lined up to host a major revival of the iconic dating show Blind Date, according to new reports. The programme, which became a national institution under the stewardship of the late Cilla Black, is set for a comeback on streaming platform Disney+.
From Inbetweeners to Iconic Host
The 36-year-old actress and comedian, who first found fame playing Charlotte Hinchcliffe in E4's The Inbetweeners, is said to be the top choice for executives. A source revealed that producers are seeking a "youthful, fun, glamorous, but also relatable" presenter to connect with a new generation of contestants. Atack's candid discussions about her own romantic journey before settling down are seen as a key asset.
"She’d be an inspiration to many of the people looking for love and happiness," the source added, highlighting her status as a famous yet approachable figure. This new version marks the second revival attempt; the show was briefly brought back in 2017, hosted by Paul O'Grady, following Cilla Black's death in 2015.
A Showbiz Legacy and Personal Stability
Emily Atack has a unique family connection to the show's original host. Her mother, comedienne Kate Robbins, wrote the theme tune for Cilla Black's Surprise Surprise! and even portrayed the legendary presenter in a 1990s comedy sketch. Atack's own career has flourished through reality TV appearances on Dancing on Ice and I'm A Celebrity..., and a starring role in the Disney+ drama Rivals.
Away from the spotlight, Atack's life has found a new centre. She is now a mother to 18-month-old son Barney and is in a relationship with Dr Alistair Garner, whom she began dating in 2023. She has spoken openly about finding profound personal happiness, telling The Times: "I needed security, a solid, stoical person... I don’t think I ever experienced proper love before because this is it."
A New Home for a Classic Format
In a significant shift from its broadcast history, the revived Blind Date is reported to be a production for Disney+, moving away from its traditional ITV home. The original format, which aired from 1985 to 2003, involved a contestant choosing a date from three unseen members of the opposite sex based on their answers to questions.
While representatives for Emily Atack have yet to comment officially, the reports suggest that a new chapter for this beloved TV format is firmly in development, aiming to capture the hearts of audiences once more.
