Interview with Merlin Griffiths
Category: Press Pack ArticleFirst Dates is back in a beautiful new restaurant, how does it feel to be filming in Bath?
Magical, I have an historical connection with Bath from when I was much younger as I grew up in Cheltenham and so it’s lovely to be back in a part of the world I know and love. Bath is beautiful.
What makes this new series different to previous series of First Dates and what can viewers expect from the new series?
What makes it different is that it’s ten years old so it's just all bigger, brighter, better than it’s ever been, with a broader range of people who are all genuinely fascinating and all looking for love. This series, viewers can expect singing, dancing and roller skating!
What have been some of your favourite moments of filming?
People bringing me gifts, which is very unusual and unexpected and the food was some of the best our restaurant has ever served. You’ll see that reflected in our satisfied dates. I think if they’re well fed, they have a better date.
Do you have any behind-the-scenes secrets you can share?
Here’s a little secret from behind-the-scenes, did you know Fred can eat an entire Nando’s chicken in a single sitting? Not a quarter, not a half but a full chicken. Lord knows he needs it, because I believe he does 300 press-ups every morning.
This year, First Dates celebrates its 10 year anniversary - how does that feel?
It’s very special, it’s quite mind-boggling to think it has been a decade we’ve been helping people connect and find love. It doesn’t seem like it, it seems just like yesterday, we were welcoming guests into the restaurant near St Paul’s in London and here we are at this magnificent place in Bath, welcoming guests again, it has flown by but hey time flies when you’re having fun!
Why do you think First Dates has been so successful over the last 10 years?
Love is a constant, it’s an absolute leveller, a common denominator. Everyone wants to feel it and it comes in many different shapes and forms.
We see you dishing out advice to the daters, what are your top tips for anyone going on a first date?
Oh goodness no, I don’t dish out advice to the daters. All I try to do is help them relax and keep them happy and watered and give them space to be themselves. The only advice I would give someone is being too TMI (too much information), but at the same time be prepared to be honest and be emotionally honest. Be yourself, don’t be somebody else.
What is the most popular cocktail you make for singletons in the First Dates restaurant?
Porn Star Martini, though the Negroni is fast catching up.
Has working on First Dates changed your opinion on love? Do you believe in love at first sight?
I’ve always been a romantic, love at first sight absolutely exists. Not everyone is lucky enough to find love, but it’s amazing when you get it.