Irish television personality Maura Higgins is set to host a reboot of the popular dating show "Blind Date." The upcoming series will be available on Disney+.
Higgins, who gained initial fame on "Love Island" and later appeared on "The Traitors US," will assume hosting duties for the show, a role famously filled by Cilla Black for many years.
Angela Jain, head of content at Disney+ EMEA, described Higgins as a "shortcut" for a tone that is "cheeky, fun, witty, and warm." Jain made these remarks at the Edinburgh TV Festival, noting Higgins' growing presence in the U.S. entertainment scene, which includes a recent casting in "Dancing With the Stars."
Higgins' television career began with her appearance on "Love Island" in 2019. She has since participated in various other reality television programs, including "I'm a Celebrity," "Dancing on Ice," and "Cooking with the Stars." She has also ventured into presenting, hosting "Glow Up Ireland," "Love Island USA's" spin-off "Aftersun," and making guest appearances on ITV's "This Morning." Additionally, she fronted her own documentary titled "Maura Higgins: You're Joking Me!"
"Blind Date" originally aired for 18 years on ITV, with Black at the helm from 1985 to 2003. The show was revived for a short period in 2018 on Channel 5, hosted by Maya Jama.
