NBC has been hoping to develop a successful dating franchise to add to its lineup for a few years now and it looks like they are now ready to throw their network weight behind First Dates. Ellen DeGeneres is slated to produce the docuseries that will begin filming later this summer in Chicago. So far, an air date for the reality-based series has not been announced.
According to a report by The Hollywood Reporter, First Dates is: "Based on the U.K. series of the same name, the hour long series is described as an observational documentary series. Each episode of the series will offer an "authentic" look at a variety of real first dates — all happening over one night at the same restaurant. Viewers will watch as couples interact and determine if they're a good fit for one another."
DeGeneres is definitely at a point in her career where she is clearly looking at other unique possibilities. The talk show queen also still has a sitcom pilot in development with NBC. We're hearing that the network has now pushed that project back another year while they focus on launching First Dates. It makes sense that they would be looking for a dating show that resonates with viewers after seeing just how popular ABC's The Bachelor remains after so many seasons. If First Dates works then they'll surely be able to get a few years out of it and who knows, real people on a first date in a normal setting might be more appealing then what other networks are offering up.
Are you surprised that DeGeneres would sign on to produce a dating show or does it sound like it might be a pretty smart move on her part? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below!
