Love is in the air as First Dates: Teens (W/T) heads to E4 in 2021

11 November 2020

Fred and his team of matchmakers will be aiming cupid’s arrow at E4 as they bring together a bunch of teens, who are all looking to delve into the sometimes-choppy waters of dating and love by going on their first, first dates.

This new six-part series will see the brand-spanking new First Dates restaurant in Manchester open its doors to teens aged 16-19, who’ll experience the thrill of a real-life, face to face blind date.

While our teens may not be ready to settle down with their soulmate just yet, First Dates: Teens (WT) gives these young romantics the chance to put their phones in their pocket, escape from the pressures of social media and talk face-to-face with a potential match. They’ll be able to put their flirting to the test, but most importantly, take a journey of self-discovery. Through their own experiences and viewpoints, the teens will explore who they are, who they want to be, and what it takes to make the perfect connection with another person.

Whilst dating can be terrifying at any age, Fred, Merlin, Cici, Grant alongside some new faces will be on hand to guide our teens through their journey step by step, helping to build their confidence and create a memorable first dating experience.

Of course, the health and safety of the teens, Fred and his team and the production crew remains a top priority. All dates have been conducted in compliance with strict COVID-19 filming protocols and the most up to date government guidelines.

Fred Sirieix said: “We’re very excited to be opening the doors of our brand-new restaurant in Manchester to a clientele we've not served before – Teens! We’ll be creating a warm and welcoming space for them to meet new people and hopefully make a connection. Most importantly, we will be looking after them like our own and will provide a space where they can just be themselves without any distractions from the outside world, or their phones! It’s going to be so much fun and I can’t wait to get started!”

Karl Warner, Controller of E4 said: “We’re thrilled to have First Dates: Teens (W/T) on E4. We want to showcase the full range and diversity of teenagers in the UK today, the way they feel about dating, and what they make of the world around them – Covid, Brexit, Nicki Minaj. It’s entertainment with depth, and a great example of the surprising, funny and heartfelt TV we love at E4.”

Channel 4’s BAFTA award-winning show has seen Fred match hundreds of couples over its nine series run, paving the way for seven engagements, three weddings and even a baby. It’s the place to ‘find the one’ for 18-year-olds right through to 101-year-olds.

This new iteration of the programme is produced by Twenty Twenty and will air next year on E4.

Ends

NOTES TO EDITORS

First Dates: Teens (WT) has been supported by the government funded Young Audiences Content Fund (YACF), which is managed by the BFI and supports the creation of distinct, high-quality content for children and young audiences.