BBC casting gender and sexuality-inclusive dating show after queer series axed
The BBC is reportedly developing an inclusive dating show (Getty Images)
The BBC is reportedly developing a dating show for 18 to 26-year-olds that will welcome contestants of any gender and sexual orientation – despite dropping much of its queer content this year.
The programme is said to be in development, with filming expected to take place in London in early November.
According to The Sun, the casting notice reads: “A new dating show is looking for outgoing people who are open, looking for love and have great chat.” It adds: “Could you be the best of the bunch and get a second date? Open to all genders and sexualities.”
The show, made by Strong Watch Studios, is reportedly intended for the BBC’s YouTube, rather than a traditional broadcast slot.
BBC cuts LGBTQ+ content
The reported development follows recent changes to the BBC’s entertainment line-up, including RuPaul’s Drag Race UK leaving the broadcaster for WOW Presents Plus.
A BBC spokesperson said: “As the BBC continues to navigate significant financial pressures and deliver the savings required of us, we have had to make some very difficult choices, none of which have been taken lightly.” They added: “We can therefore confirm together with World of Wonder, that RuPaul’s Drag Race UK will be leaving the BBC and moving to WOW Presents Plus.”
Earlier this year, the BBC also ended Dannii Minogue’s LGBTQ+ dating formats. In March, the broadcaster decided to axe I Kissed A Boy and I Kissed A Girl, saying it was “exceptionally proud” of the shows while citing “funding challenges”.
‘There has to be something like this on TV’
Earlier this year, Minogue spoke to PinkNews about the I Kissed A franchise, and the importance of showing queer love and joy on television.
She said: “There has to be something like this on TV. It’s important on many levels, and the thing that astounds me is the people that still ask why Pride is important, why is it important to raise this flag or have this day. The conversation blows my mind.”
Minogue was hopeful that the series would find a new home, adding that fans were “right” to feel sad it was coming to an end.
“Everybody wants to feel seen, and there are people who are just discovering themselves, so may not feel like they are in the community yet but really need to explore these feelings coming up,” she said.
“There are a lot of families that are watching it to understand their family members, so I think they’ve got every right to be upset.”
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