Maura Higgins has been confirmed as the host of Disney+’s new version of Blind Date, with the iconic British dating show set to return to screens in 2027. The Irish television personality will front the newly reimagined series, which is due to begin filming at a secret location later this year. Disney+ says the format will retain the familiar setup of the original show, with contestants choosing between three potential suitors hidden behind the famous Blind Date wall.
Higgins first rose to fame as a finalist on Love Island UK before going on to host Love Island USA: Aftersun. Earlier this year, she appeared on The Traitors U.S., finishing as runner-up after becoming part of one of the season’s biggest moments when she discovered she had been betrayed by her partner in the final episode. She is also set to appear on the upcoming season of Dancing with the Stars in the US.
With Blind Date, Higgins will continue that run of major television roles as she steps into one of British entertainment’s most recognisable hosting jobs. The new series will keep the central format that made the original such a hit, with daters choosing from three people they cannot see before meeting their match. Cilla Black was the show’s iconic original host and helped make Blind Date one of the most recognisable dating formats on British television. Disney+ has also promised new twists and plenty of drama as the show is updated for a contemporary audience. Further details about the secret filming location and exactly how those twists will work are being kept under wraps for now, with more information expected closer to production.
Angela Jain, Head of Content at Disney+ EMEA, said: “Maura is the perfect match for our version of ‘Blind Date’. Her distinctive straight-talking humour, coupled with her experience as a reality dating show contestant, means we know she has the gravitas plus the wit to bring ‘Blind Date’ to new audiences.” She added: “We’re very much looking forward to Maura helping our daters navigate their own journeys to find love as she steps into the famed ‘Blind Date’ host role.”
The 10-part, 45-minute series is commissioned by Sean Doyle, VP, Unscripted, Disney+ EMEA. It is executive produced by Matthew Worthy and Kieran Doherty for Stellify Media and Graham Stuart for SO TV.
For CultureCues, Maura Higgins feels like a very natural fit for Blind Date. She has the quick humour and straight-talking personality that made her such a standout on Love Island, and she has only become more confident as a presenter since. Taking on such an iconic format is a big step, but if Disney+ wants this version to feel fun, fresh and more than a simple nostalgia revival, Maura is a strong choice to lead it.
Blind Date will premiere on Disney+ in 2027, with filming beginning later this year.
Nikki Murray is a UK-based writer, screenwriter and founder & editor of CultureCues, covering film, television, music and pop culture. Her work focuses on storytelling and the moments shaping modern entertainment.