I Kissed A Boy

'I Kissed A Boy' is a groundbreaking reality-dating show produced by Twofour (under ITV Studios) and first aired on BBC Three / BBC iPlayer in 2023 — marking the UK’s first ever gay-dating series.

The format is bold, fresh, and unapologetically authentic: ten single gay men are paired up and — on their first meeting — they share a kiss before saying a single word. From there, they spend time together in a picturesque Italian masseria, navigating initial chemistry, interpersonal dynamics, and the ups and downs of forming a relationship under the watchful eyes of cameras.

The show resonated strongly with UK audiences and beyond. It’s been described by critics as a “reality game-changer,” “relatable,” and “historic,” and applauded for bringing honest, inclusive queer representation into mainstream dating television.

The success of the first season led to a follow-up series (and a sister show) 'I Kissed A Girl' - confirming its impact and popularity.

Internationally, the series has expanded its reach: in the U.S., for example, the first two seasons are picked up by Hulu as part of their “Pride” content slate, making the show accessible to a global audience beyond the UK.

In my capacity as a Welfare Assistant Producer on the show, I played a vital behind-the-scenes role in safeguarding and supporting our cast. My responsibilities involved travelling across the country to meet potential contributors, engaging not only with the selected singles but also with their close family members and friends. I ensured everyone — the cast and their support networks — fully understood what appearing on camera would involve, including discussions about their sexuality, consent, and representation. I assessed backgrounds and flagged any potential concerns to preempt issues during transmission, always putting people’s emotional wellbeing and comfort first - helping to ensure that everyone involved felt safe, supported, and empowered to tell their stories honestly.