Bobby Norris, best known for his decade-long stint on The Only Way Is Essex, has expressed interest in hosting the upcoming reboot of Blind Date. The iconic matchmaking show is being revived by Disney+ for a 10-part series, with production set to begin later this year.
The new format will retain the classic premise: contestants choose between three potential suitors hidden behind the famous wall. However, the show will introduce fresh twists, including a summer living arrangement where daters face new arrivals lurking behind the wall.
Norris, who appeared on TOWIE from 2012 to 2021, said in an exclusive interview: 'Paul O'Grady and Cilla Black were legends so they're big shoes to fill but I think we could do it.' The original series, hosted by Cilla Black, aired on ITV from 1985 to 2003, before a revival on Channel 5 with Paul O'Grady from 2017 to 2019.
The show's classic format involved three singles of the same sex being questioned by a contestant of the opposite sex, who could hear but not see them. The chosen couple then embarked on a date to a mystery destination, ranging from a simple outing in Bognor Regis to exotic locations like the Maldives.
It remains to be seen whether Norris will land the role, but the former reality star is keen to step into the shoes of previous hosts. Disney+ has yet to announce an official presenter for the reboot.
