I was on First Dates and it was NOTHING like I expected – I was crippled with anxiety and show regular Merlin Griffiths had to calm me down at the bar

I was on First Dates and it was NOTHING like I expected - I was crippled with anxiety and show regular Merlin Griffiths had to calm me down at the bar

As I delve into this heartwarming tale of two souls seeking connection amidst the golden years of their lives, I am reminded of the profound wisdom that comes with age and the resilience of the human spirit.


A participant on First Dates confessed that she felt extremely nervous and anxious, leading to Merlin Griffiths needing to get involved.

On Tuesdays, the Channel 4 dating series made its comeback, featuring a new group of singles eager to discover romance in the renowned eatery.

Originally, Annabelle Gauntlett, a contestant from past seasons and only 18 during filming, recently shared insights into the reality of the dating show off-camera.

Annabelle originally applied for First Dates as a joke and didn’t expect to get a call for an interview with the show’s bosses in Manchester. 

She shared with The Inverness Courier: “A group of TV producers grilled me on my character and fictional romance for more than two hours. Given that my segment was produced under Covid-19 restrictions, I didn’t anticipate being selected for the final cast.”

I was on First Dates and it was NOTHING like I expected - I was crippled with anxiety and show regular Merlin Griffiths had to calm me down at the bar

I was on First Dates and it was NOTHING like I expected - I was crippled with anxiety and show regular Merlin Griffiths had to calm me down at the bar

After the interview, Annabelle underwent a session with a psychiatrist to confirm her mental and physical readiness for TV appearances. Following this assessment, they successfully found a suitable match for her.

During my journey back to Manchester for a visit to the authentic First Dates eatery, I found myself in a state of disbelief over my own actions.

‘I was crippled with anxiety as I waited in anticipation for the camera crew to attach my mic.’ 

As Annabelle entered the renowned eatery, she was warmly welcomed by Fred Sirieix, a man of 52, who is famously known for hosting the television program.

Luckily, Merlin Griffiths, the bartender, noticed her tension and successfully helped her unwind before her date arrived.

She mentioned that he escorted her to the bar, where she engaged in a delightful conversation with Merlin, the bartender. They shared amusing anecdotes about her hometown.

Annabelle met her blind date, Charlie who hails from North London, and soon found herself engrossed in their conversation, momentarily overlooking the presence of the cameras, savoring the time spent on their date instead.

Annabelle emphasized that the program doesn’t rely heavily on management or a written script, allowing the dining experiences to unfold naturally – an aspect she didn’t anticipate.

As a participant on this unique program, one might assume a theatrical backdrop with hovering cameras at the dinner table. However, I found myself pleasantly surprised by the authenticity; it’s more like an ordinary date where you’re left to navigate the conversation and connections on your own.

Annabelle also revealed that the bill is paid in full by the cast. 

After what seemed like no time at all during our fantastic date, the check arrived. To my delight, it was covered by the group, but after a brief discussion, I ended up being the one to settle the bill, Charlie mentioned.

After wrapping up their evening together, they both expressed a desire to meet again and made their way back to the hotel provided for them, where they decided to enjoy a couple of drinks together.

I was on First Dates and it was NOTHING like I expected - I was crippled with anxiety and show regular Merlin Griffiths had to calm me down at the bar
I was on First Dates and it was NOTHING like I expected - I was crippled with anxiety and show regular Merlin Griffiths had to calm me down at the bar
I was on First Dates and it was NOTHING like I expected - I was crippled with anxiety and show regular Merlin Griffiths had to calm me down at the bar

To maintain a balanced life and focus on my professional aspirations, I decided that my relationship with the chef in London wasn’t sustainable due to his demanding work schedule. Instead, I embarked on a new journey by moving to Scotland to establish myself as a journalist, following my passion for storytelling and making a difference.

Reflecting on this past year, I can’t help but be moved when recalling the heartwarming story of an elderly couple who graced our screens on First Dates, a quest for love that left many viewers, including myself, in tears.

As an army veteran from Kent named Ronald, now 90 years old, I found myself unexpectedly gaining a large number of admirers after appearing in the “Be My Valentine” segment on the show that was broadcasted in February.

In the collection of hearts he won was that of Iris, a 91-year-old widow seeking a lifelong companion; swiftly, Ronald employed his charisma to win her affection.

The charming methods he used, such as serenading Iris with a Frank Sinatra tune, didn’t go unrecognized by viewers. They expressed their admiration for the endearing couple on X, with many claiming that the unfolding of their unexpected love tale had touched their hearts deeply and left them feeling emotional.

Prior to going out with Iris, Ronald, who had been married for 40 years, shared his sadness by saying: ‘This might be my final opportunity.’

I was on First Dates and it was NOTHING like I expected - I was crippled with anxiety and show regular Merlin Griffiths had to calm me down at the bar
I was on First Dates and it was NOTHING like I expected - I was crippled with anxiety and show regular Merlin Griffiths had to calm me down at the bar

He then added: ‘If she’s young at heart, she can have my heart.’

In the meantime, Iris, a widow residing in Surrey, shared with her audience: “I’m open to some romantic encounters, yet they seem elusive.”

‘They can be old and decrepit but they don’t have to show it all the time.’

The budding couple met at a restaurant for dinner and it was clearly love at first sight.

I was on First Dates and it was NOTHING like I expected - I was crippled with anxiety and show regular Merlin Griffiths had to calm me down at the bar

Read More

2024-08-12 20:19

Previous post WWE must keep Bronson Reed’s momentum rolling
Next post Pokémon voice actor Rachael Lillis dies at 46