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Post by ManicKangaroo on Mar 16, 2017 20:51:20 GMT 1
Paul O'Grady has said he is honoured to host the new version of Blind Date when it returns this year.
The matchmaking show will include LGBT contestants for the first time, in its new incarnation on Channel 5.
O'Grady was a close friend of the late Cilla Black, who hosted the show on ITV during its run from 1985 and 2003.
He said: "Blind Date is an incredibly special family show which brought laughter, tears and joy to TV viewers throughout the land."
The presenter and comedian added: "I am honoured to present the brand new series and, after speaking to Channel 5, I know the series is in safe hands. I can't wait to see if we can find love."
Channel 5's official announcement said the show had been "updated for the 21st Century".
"With no chance to swipe left, send a selfie or message back, the class of 2017 must break with modern-day dating convention and rely on their basic instincts to find the chemistry," it said.
The new format will retain the sliding panel that conceals the contestants, the three question format and live studio audience, but will also include "thematic twists" to "breathe new life" into the series.
Ben Frow, director of programmes for Channel 5, said: "Paul is the perfect choice to bridge the old and the new, capturing the essence and charm of a series that became staple Saturday night family viewing in living rooms up and down the country, whilst attracting and appealing to a whole new generation of TV viewers."
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Post by Thenode on Mar 17, 2017 12:00:51 GMT 1
This will be brilliant I cant wait for it to be on my screen again and paul ogrady is the best choice
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Post by DJCanary on Mar 29, 2017 22:39:57 GMT 1
Perfect choice. He is the only host I would watch it for.
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Post by Deleted on Apr 15, 2017 7:45:41 GMT 1
At least he was a friend of Cilla so he will want to do it justice
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