A beloved British television institution is poised for a comeback, with a fresh face reportedly lined up to take the helm. Emily Atack, the 36-year-old actress known for The Inbetweeners and Rivals, is said to be the leading contender to host a reboot of Cilla Black's iconic dating show, Blind Date. The revival is set to find a new home on Disney Plus, with filming expected to commence in the New Year.
Why Emily Atack is the Producers' Choice
According to a television insider speaking to The Sun, executives are seeking a host who embodies a specific blend of qualities for the modern revival. They desire someone "youthful, fun and glamorous but also relatable to the youngsters" who are likely to apply as contestants. Atack, a mother-of-one, has been candid about her own romantic history before settling down, which producers believe would make her an inspirational figure for those looking for love.
Her career began with her breakout role as Charlotte in the hit series The Inbetweeners, leading to film roles and her current part in Disney Plus's Rivals. Intriguingly, Atack also has a personal link to the show's original host. Her mother, Kate Robbins, wrote the theme tune for Cilla Black's other major TV success, Surprise! Surprise!, and provided the voice for her Spitting Image puppet.
A Storied History and a New Home
The original Blind Date aired on ITV from 1985 to 2003, becoming a Saturday night staple. It featured a single person choosing a date from three unseen members of the opposite sex, guided only by their answers to questions. The show had a brief two-year revival on Channel 5 in 2017, hosted by Paul O'Grady, but failed to recapture its former glory.
The legacy of the original series is cemented by real-life success stories. Sue and Alex Tatham, who met on the show in 1988, became its first married couple and are still together over 35 years later. The upcoming reboot represents a significant move for Disney Plus as it expands its UK-produced entertainment content.
Personal Milestones and Professional Advocacy
The news of Atack's potential casting follows a happy personal development. Earlier this year, she announced her engagement to boyfriend Dr Alistair Garner. Professionally, she has recently been a vocal advocate for the use of intimacy coordinators on film and TV sets, speaking openly about experiencing sexual assault throughout her career and welcoming the industry shift post-#MeToo.
While names like Alan Carr and Alison Hammond have been floated by fans as potential hosts, it appears Emily Atack is currently in pole position. If confirmed, her appointment would mark a new chapter for a classic format, aiming to introduce Blind Date to a generation who never heard Cilla Black say her famous "luvvy" or "ta-ra".
