**Iconic Dating Show ‘Blind Date’ to Return with Disney+ Revival**
A beloved staple of British Saturday night television, ‘Blind Date’ is widely expected to make a comeback, but with a surprisingly modern twist—the revival will reportedly find its new home on Disney+.
The matchmaking series, once fronted by the legendary Cilla Black between 1985 and 2003, captivated audiences across generations with its light-hearted blend of witty banter and hopeful romance. For many years, rumours swirled that the format could be revived, with the BBC previously tipped as the most likely contender. Now, however, it appears that Disney+ has secured the rights to reboot the classic show, a move expected to capture both nostalgia and a younger generation of viewers.
Speculation about the forthcoming series has already begun to swirl, particularly regarding who might step into the host’s shoes. Names such as Claudia Winkleman, Davina McCall, and Holly Willoughby are reportedly under consideration—each bringing their own distinct style and fan base to the table.
According to sources close to the negotiations, the producers are keen to preserve the heart and soul of the original format, while also introducing “some modern twists” that will appeal to contemporary audiences. “The famous sliding wall will definitely be making a return,” an industry insider told The Sun. Additionally, in a nod to the show’s tradition, couples may compete for a lavish wedding package, echoing Cilla’s iconic jest, “Do I need to buy a hat for the wedding?”
Cilla Black, a national treasure widely loved for her warmth and humour, sadly died in 2015 at the age of 72. Her association with ‘Blind Date’ remains so strong that any revival is guaranteed to be measured against her legacy. In 2017, Channel 5 attempted a reboot of the show, with close friend Paul O’Grady at the helm, but the run ended in 2019 after four series.
The current clamour around the potential hosting lineup has focused notably on Holly Willoughby. Renowned for her approachable style and broad appeal, Willoughby is reportedly being championed by her husband, producer Dan Baldwin, with whom she has frequently collaborated. According to reports, Holly’s track record with ‘Dancing on Ice’ and ‘This Morning’ makes her “a natural fit” for steering the new version, much as she was previously chosen to revive another Cilla classic, ‘Surprise, Surprise.’
Television commentators suggest that Willoughby’s ambition extends beyond co-hosting duties. She is believed to be looking to cement her status as a standalone television personality, much as Black herself did during her career. Dan Baldwin’s involvement behind the scenes only boosts the couple’s credentials as a reality TV power duo, capable of drawing in substantial audiences.
As the landscape of television continues to evolve, the arrival of ‘Blind Date’ on a streaming platform as ubiquitous as Disney+ marks a significant development. With nostalgia for the original series running high, and contemporary tastes shifting towards interactive, reality-based content, Disney+ is making a bold statement about its commitment to British entertainment.
Viewers across the UK—and indeed internationally—are now waiting to see how the new series will strike the balance between cherished tradition and fresh innovation. Disney+ has yet to make an official announcement regarding the launch date or presenter, but anticipation is already building within the industry and among fans of the show.
With the potential addition of new formats and a high-profile presenter, interest in the revival is mounting, and the show seems poised to re-cement its place within Saturday night television. Whether the reboot can live up to the standards set by Cilla Black remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: ‘Blind Date’ is stepping boldly into the streaming age.