First Dates

I have watched many episodes and I think the format is refreshing and bold. I only wish that the teasers and trailers could be taken out (applies to most shows actually) because I have already tuned in so I do not need to waste a minute telling me what's coming next! Nor do I need to see a snippet synopsis of next weeks episode (who do they think I am? American or something? with a short attention span ?). The shows producers have taken time and trouble to match the interests of the couples but sometimes I think this takes some of the quirkiness away from the encounters. Since most "dates" eventually lead to no further meetings it is fascinating to watch how people deal with their obvious dislike and disinterest in the other person. All the participants have come across as being genuine and only one person has impolitely left suddenly at the last interview. I do not understand the reviewer who questioned why some of the participants repeatedly come back. These people want to find a mate with whom they can settle down with for the rest of their lives. Questioning their reasoning is for another show. My admiration goes out to those who constantly put themselves in the firing line for rejection and a massive plus must be the anticipation of the next date and who you shall meet. A great show and well worth a watch. 10/10.

I've watched all the versions, however I will always go back to the UK version as it is the best.

From the moment I watched the first episode of UK First Dates I was addicted.

Fred as host, Merlin as the barman and all the wait staff are endearing.

I was not ever overly fond of the specials. I didn't think there was much need for them.

I liked watching just normal people on dates.

It was great watching how people reacted to one another, watching if they shut down or opened up.

The cringe moments, the funny moments.

This show is a fantastic reality show for those that love shows about love.

Highly recommended.

This is by far the best version of first dates and I have seen many others!

It's lovely to watch couples meeting each other for the first time and seeing how they interact with each other and what the outcome will be!

Fred is the best maitre d and Merlin is an amazing barman mixing any drink their hearts desire.

I also enjoyed the teenage version of the show as it's really sweet and lovely even though it's more cringey.

I enjoy it when the couples end up together which doesn't happen very often in the earlier series but more so in the later ones.

Highly recommended viewing if you are a fan of romance and reality shows.

It's a very interesting program.. to get snapshot personalities of each of the participants, and what they reveal so readily to the camera is at times astounding. There are individuals you would want nothing at all to do with.. and why someone would subsequently 'choose' to go out on a date with them is interesting. As for the program format, the biggest issue is those returning for another 'first date'... as not enough background detail is provided the viewer. Like when we've seen both people before, but we're not informed as to which one of the two actually selected the other (that information would be most helpful). And why have some come back four or more times.. what's the point? Some insightful analysis of the problems must account for the repeat failures. And no doubt, it must be watched after being taped, for fast-forwarding through uninteresting/ boring footage (which there should be made less of) is essential to enjoyable viewing. It's a refreshing show, as the majority of these young people seem to be genuinely nice/ likable people, and in a age of such foreboding issues, that leaves a glimmer of hope for our future. And as a heads-up to the producers, the new format for the third season was not an improvement.. it turned out more of a distraction than was worth it.. giving the program more of a phony, contrived feel.

I watch first dates each episode is another bundle of anticipation, fun, joy or occasional sadness. The show brings all our insecurities and fears of first dates onto the screen, my daughter and I always watch with a kindness towards all parties involved.

We each and everyone of us fear the ultimate rejection of a first impression/ first date and the show goes to show we are all fundamentally the same.

I would like to propose a northern first dates, based at the wonderful Bettys tea rooms in Ilkley, I think it would make a perfect setting. All the romance and style of a vintage tearoom with character and entertainment. Do let me know if you will consider !!!