First Dates (2013)
The beloved British reality series that turns a restaurant table into the most nerve-wracking — and heartwarming — seat in television.
First Dates - Series Information
- Original Title: First Dates
- First Air Year: 2013
- Last Air Year: 2025
- Created by: Ana de Moraes
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Reality
- Content Rating (US): TV-14
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode (50 minutes)
- Number of Seasons: 24
- Number of Episodes: 208
- Status: Returning Series
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- First Air Date: June 20, 2013 (United States - TV-14), June 20, 2013 (Canada - 14+), June 20, 2013 (Germany - 12), June 20, 2013 (France - 12), June 20, 2013 (Spain - 12)
- Networks: Channel 4, Channel 4 (Online)
- Alternative Titles: First Dates UK (UK), Första dejten: England (SE)
- Production Companies: Twenty Twenty Television
- Production Countries: United Kingdom
First Dates - Plot
Interactive dating experiment in which real dates are filmed, and then viewers get the chance to apply to date the unsuccessful participants the following week.
First Dates - Trailer
See the sparks fly and the nerves unfold in the official First Dates trailer.
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First Dates - Cast & Crew
Creator(s)
- Ana de Moraes
Main Cast
- Fred Sirieix
- Merlin Griffiths
- Cici Coleman
- Sam Conrad
- Brian Protheroe
- Laura Nicole Tott
- Austin Ventour
- Will Holloway
- Grant Urquhart
- Ralf Little
First Dates - FAQs
Are the dates on First Dates real or scripted?
The dates on First Dates are completely real. Participants are genuine singles matched by the production team, and their conversations are unscripted. Cameras capture the natural chemistry — or awkwardness — as it unfolds, making each encounter authentic and often surprisingly moving.
What restaurant is used in First Dates?
First Dates is filmed at Paternoster Chop House, a real restaurant near St Paul's Cathedral in London. The venue is dressed and staffed by the show's team during filming, though it operates as a normal restaurant outside of production days.
Where can you stream First Dates?
First Dates is available to stream with ads on The Roku Channel. For additional viewing options that may vary by region, checking your local streaming services or the Channel 4 streaming platform is recommended.
Who is Fred Sirieix in First Dates?
Fred Sirieix is the charming French maître d' who has become the face of First Dates. He greets every diner, puts nervous participants at ease, and offers warm, witty observations about love and relationships. His natural warmth and charisma are central to the show's enduring appeal.
How many seasons does First Dates have?
First Dates has aired 24 seasons since its debut in June 2013, accumulating 208 episodes across its run. The show also includes a collection of specials. Still going strong as a returning series, it remains one of Channel 4's most beloved long-running reality formats.
Is First Dates worth watching?
Absolutely worth a watch. First Dates stands out in the crowded dating show landscape by focusing on genuine human connection rather than manufactured drama. Its warmth, humour, and surprisingly emotional moments have earned it a loyal following and critical praise for its authentic, feel-good format.
Has First Dates inspired international versions?
First Dates has inspired numerous international adaptations, including versions in France, Australia, Ireland, the Netherlands, Spain, and the United States, among others. The format's universal appeal — real people, real emotions, real dates — has translated remarkably well across different cultures and languages.
What are similar shows to First Dates?
If you enjoy First Dates, you might love Love on the Spectrum for its heartfelt approach to dating, or The Bachelor for more dramatic romantic competition. Swiping America and The Ultimatum: Marry or Move On also explore modern relationships with an entertaining, unscripted edge.
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