ITV to launch new dating series

ITV is to launch a new dating series which it hopes will recreate the success of Blind Date [pictured left].

 

ITV is launching a new dating series it hopes will recreate the success of Blind Date. The new dating series, based on the concept of speed dating, is from Talkback Thames – the producers of The X-Factor. Called Take Me Out the series features 30 women from across the UK who will remain with the series until a guy picks them. The hopeful male will walk on stage and only give his name and where in the UK he comes from. If the women want to learn more they’ll keep the light on their stand on but if not they’ll turn it off. The series will be fronted by Paddy McGuinness and eight episodes have already been ordered and pre-production work is underway with ITV hoping to broadcast the series early next year.  

Take Me Out was originally intended for Channel Four but transferred to ITV. The broadcaster has struggled to find a successful dating series since Blind Date ended and has had various tries with shows fronted by Davina McCall, Holly Willoughby, Kerry Katona and Fern Cotton all failing to take off.

The series commissioner is Elaine Bedell, director of entertainment and comedy at ITV. The show is her biggest commission since joining the broadcaster.