Not for the first time there is a bumblebee in the reality world of Love is Blind. Former participants in the English version of the dating show complain that the confidants who were supposed to ensure their well-being are in fact in the hands of the series makers.
Relationship of trust violated
The complaints come in particular from Catherine Richards and Jake Singleton-Hill, two participants in the first season of the reality series. They say that the counselors who were introduced as independent helpers before their participation actually talked their mouths off about the things they shared.
“We are nothing more than their puppets,” Richards counters Deadline. “They say it’s about our well-being, but that’s not the case.” The confidential counselors are said to have maintained close contact with the producers of the series; not to ensure the safety of the participants, but to pass on confidential details that could be interesting from a dramatic point of view. “They work for a television production that is eagerly looking for storylines,” said the participant.
In front of the altar
The allegations from the former participants follow a scandal surrounding the British version of Married at First Sight. Two women claimed they were raped during the making of the Channel 4 show, in which contestants see each other for the first time as they stand at the wedding altar. Richards heard the news about the reality series and felt encouraged to speak out about her own negative experiences.
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Love Is Blind: UK (2024‑ )
Watch on Netflix • Singles date, fall in love and get engaged before they meet in this British edition of “one of the best dating series in recent history.”
A Netflix spokesperson said in response that the psychological and physical well-being of participants has always been a priority for the streamer. “Regarding a next season or variation on this show, we always ensure that everything is done to provide the right care to our participants,” it said. The second season of Love is Blind UK has been on the streaming service since last year.
Image: Still ‘Love Is Blind UK’ via Netflix
