Blind Date is the name of a British dating game show and an American reality show. The two shows share little except a name.

British Version

The British version had a format similar to the game known in North America as The Dating Game, which first aired in late 1965 on the American Broadcasting Corporation network. Three singles of the same sex were introduced to the audience. They were then asked questions by a single of the opposite sex, who could hear but not see them, in order to choose which one he or she would prefer to go on a date with. Before making a final decision, the mysterious 'Graham', whose face was never seen, would give an amusing reminder of each of the contestants.

When he or she made a choice, and been introduced, the couple would then get to randomly choose where they will go on the date (though in fact the "random choice" was fixed, as all of the envelopes offered to the contestants contained the same destination). It was hosted by Cilla Black and ran from 1985 - 2003.

The following episode then showed the film of the couple as they went on their date, and interviews with them about the date and about each other. This version was aimed at a family audience.

At its most popular in the 1980s, 14 million viewers tuned in on a Saturday night. Cilla's scouse accent and her variety of catchphrases soon became renowned throughout the nation.

American Version

The American version is a reality show in which couples who do not know each other are paired up and sent off on a date. The cameras follow their every move, and sarcastic subtitles, animations, and captions are added for the enjoyment of the viewers. It is hosted by Roger Lodge .

The dates are often unsuccessful, and this, too, appears to add to the enjoyment of the viewers. Certain dates are described as "Dates from Hell" and the show frequently concludes with an exerpt from the show's "Hall of Shame." The show features, and is primary aimed at young adults. The level of "reality" in Blind Date has been questioned as porn stars frequently appear as "contestants". Despite this, the level of sexual content in the series as shown on television is rather low, but DVD releases of series highlights have contained nudity and more sexually explicit discussions and activities considered too risque for broadcast.

See also: blind date, the concept after which the shows are named.

External link

• Uk Gameshows Page: Blind Date