BBC to Debut Gender-Fluid Dating Series Amidst Cancellation of LGBT Shows
The British broadcaster is developing a new reality dating show open to all genders and sexualities, following the axing of popular LGBT-focused programs like 'RuPaul's Drag Race UK'.
The BBC is reportedly preparing to launch a new dating series described as 'gender-fluid,' a move that follows the cancellation of several LGBT-friendly shows, including 'RuPaul's Drag Race UK' and 'I Kissed a Girl' and 'I Kissed a Boy.' The upcoming show, currently untitled, is in the development phase and aims to be inclusive of 'all genders and sexualities,' with participants aged between 18 and 26.
A casting notice obtained by The Sun seeks outgoing individuals who are seeking love and possess strong communication skills, explicitly stating openness to 'all genders and sexualities.' Filming for the series is anticipated to take place in London early next month at the BBC's Strong Watch Studios.
This development comes after the BBC confirmed the discontinuation of 'RuPaul's Drag Race UK,' which premiered in 2019 and highlighted British drag artists and LGBTQ+ culture. A BBC spokesperson cited 'significant financial pressures' and the necessity of delivering required savings as the reasons for these difficult decisions. The broadcaster stated that 'RuPaul's Drag Race UK' will be moving to the streaming platform WOW Presents Plus.
The BBC expressed pride in 'RuPaul's Drag Race UK,' thanking all those involved and noting that viewers could still enjoy the eighth series currently airing on BBC iPlayer and BBC Three. The show has been credited with launching the careers of several performers, including La Voix, Danny Beard, Tayce, and Ginger Johnson. However, the series also faced tragedy with the death of 2019 UK series winner, The Vivienne, at age 32.
The BBC has not yet officially commented on the new dating series, but the reported plans signal a shift in the broadcaster's programming strategy concerning LGBT-themed content.