First Dates

I recently discovered the BBC show First Dates, a decidedly sweet show and not at all what you'd expect if you grew up with the likes of Singled Out or Next!. The show's concept is simple, put two people on a blind date and see how they interact and possibly get along. It's not a hidden camera show, not filled with Date Challenges or anything subversive - it's just people on a date trying to find a connection. Each episode features three to four couples but the entire season is filmed inside the same restaurant and features the restaurant staff checking in with the couples along the way.

Maybe that doesn't sound entirely enticing but it's both pleasant and entirely engaging. It's also a nice reminder that even when people don't connect romantically, they can be civil, funny and have a nice time together; despite those differences.

Watch a bunch of clips on YouTube and get convinced.