From ‘Too Hot to Handle’ to ‘Let’s Marry Harry’: How Netflix created its own world of reality TV stars

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Television personality Harry Jowsey, known for his romantic escapades, heartbreaks, and deceptions on screen, has now declared at age 28 that he’s eager to discover his life partner. However, he admits feeling apprehensive about it.

In the previous month, registration commenced online for the upcoming Netflix reality series titled “Let’s Marry Harry.” This unique opportunity attracted a multitude of individuals eager to become the future spouse of the celebrated star from “Too Hot to Handle.

The day the show was revealed, Jowsey found it astonishing that numerous women had already uploaded TikTok videos detailing their applications for his program.

Jowsey previously shared with The Times that he doubts anyone would be willing to participate in a dating show, particularly one leading to marriage, as it involves exposing oneself vulnerably. He added, while laughing, ‘It’s like saying ‘I am liked!”

Netflix is counting on it.

Jowsey belongs to Netflix’s termed “Netflix Reality Universe,” which consists of ordinary individuals seeking romance or ready for competition against others. For instance, “Love on the Spectrum” showcases individuals with autism going on dates. “Too Hot to Handle” puts appealing contestants through the test by prohibiting them from having sexual encounters. “Squid Game: The Challenge” involves participants competing in games that resemble the popular South Korean drama, “Squid Game.

Netflix’s programming approach centers around integrating Reality TV as a significant component. This strategy is designed to replace conventional television by offering an extensive range of content suitable for nearly every audience group. Shows focused on dating, culinary competitions, and live reunion episodes serve as comforting additions, complementing Netflix’s vast collection of films, scripted series like “Squid Game,” children’s programs such as “Sesame Street,” and an expanding selection of live broadcasts and sports events.

Netflix strategically places breakout reality show stars across multiple series and characters, thereby enhancing their popularity and, in turn, increasing the visibility of the streaming service itself.

Tom Nunan, a past executive at studios and networks, noted that Netflix has developed its own unique community with its viewers. He suggested that if this means transferring some well-liked reality stars to other Netflix reality series, it’s even more advantageous. In essence, he was saying it’s all about maintaining connections within their network.

Next year, the show titled ‘Let’s Marry Harry,’ executive-produced by podcaster Alex Cooper, exemplifies Netflix’s approach. Following his appearance on ‘Too Hot to Handle,’ Netflix has boosted Jowsey’s fame by featuring him in the second season of dating series ‘Perfect Match’ and casting him in an upcoming romantic comedy movie on Netflix, titled ‘The Wrong Paris.’

Netflix has extended similar chances to Chloe Veitch, a cast member from “Too Hot to Handle,” who also appeared as a contestant on “The Circle” and “Perfect Match,” and hosted “Sneaky Links: Dating After Dark.” Similarly, comedian Michelle Buteau, who previously worked as a host for Netflix’s reality show “The Circle,” now has comedy specials available on the streaming platform and stars in her own scripted series titled “Survival of the Thickest.

Translated: “Let’s Marry Harry,” which functions as Netflix’s first reality show similar to “The Bachelor,” features Jowsey, a man whose qualities didn’t originally suggest him as an ideal candidate for marriage. In the second season of “Perfect Match,” it was revealed that he had initially lied about sharing a kiss with another contestant.

The drama that comes with reality TV is part of the gig.

Jowsey stated during an interview, while enjoying a New York strip steak at Calabra’s rooftop restaurant in Santa Monica, “We’re going to face criticism no matter what.” He added, “It feels liberating to simply say, ‘Oh well, I might as well just do it and be true to myself. Some people won’t like it, others will love it.’ Working in this field is fantastic because I get to express myself on camera and have fun.

Brandon Riegg, Netflix’s vice president of nonfiction series and sports, noted that Jowsey’s playful demeanor, appealing personality, and naughty streak are the main factors that have kept viewers captivated since “Too Hot to Handle” debuted on Netflix five years back.

Riegg said, “He reminds me of someone charming yet a little mischievous, doesn’t he? He’s got an accent and a twinkle in his eyes that hint at some troublemaking. He’s entertaining, and he seems like a good person… If the show can help him find a potential Mrs. Jowsey more effectively, then I think that’s fantastic! So we’ll join him on this adventure.

When Riegg joined Netflix in 2016, he played a crucial role in establishing their reality TV programming library, which at that time was virtually non-existent. Today, Netflix boasts over 1,800 unscripted shows, with around 500 of them being reality TV series.

The broadcaster created global sensations like “Love is Blind,” a series that has been remade in ten different nations, with its American version set to debut its ninth season soon. As per Nielsen data, “Love is Blind” was the second-highest viewed original streaming program on U.S. televisions last year.

Riegg stated that reality dating shows serve as an excellent environment for new concepts. During his tenure at ABC, he and executive Rob Mills were key figures in developing the idea for “Bachelor in Paradise,” a popular reality dating show featuring contestants from previous seasons of “The Bachelor” or “The Bachelorette.

At Netflix, competitors on shows like “Love is Blind” and “Too Hot to Handle” have previously appeared in other reality series such as “Perfect Match” or “Battle Camp,” which gather participants from various shows produced by the streaming platform. One of the more contentious contestants, Jowsey, found a natural progression into “Let’s Marry Harry.

With a sound concept, combined with the right skills and favorable circumstances, we’re eagerly looking forward to starting this project, as expressed by Riegg.

Through a strategy similar to TV networks such as MTV and Bravo, Netflix has enabled individuals like Jowsey to amass substantial fan bases starting from humble beginnings, making their faces visible to hundreds of millions of subscribers worldwide. This cycle benefits the star, as it encourages their social media followers to revisit other shows on Netflix. As of last year, Netflix reported having over 301 million subscribers.

Jowsey experienced a significant increase in his social media presence, particularly on Instagram, when “Too Hot to Handle” was released in 2020, boosting his followers from 140,000 to a staggering 2.4 million. Currently, he boasts an impressive 4.4 million followers on Instagram and 5.1 million on TikTok. In addition to this, Jowsey hosts a podcast titled “Boyfriend Material” and offers skincare products for sale.

Born and raised on an Australian farm as the youngest of five siblings, Jowsey found his time at university less appealing when a friend of his brother took his life. This unfortunate incident served as a pivotal moment for him, leading him to reconsider his path in life. He discovered that he had a knack for making people laugh and subsequently ventured into modeling before eventually finding himself on the New Zealand reality dating show, “Heartbreak Island.

Sporting curly, chestnut-colored locks and a self-proclaimed playful demeanor, Jowsey attempted to join numerous reality shows before securing a spot on “Too Hot to Handle.” Interestingly enough, he wasn’t yet a Netflix subscriber at that moment due to financial constraints.

Without a doubt,” Jowsey remarked, “It’s blossomed into this stunning relationship, and I get to realize my grandest dream. I recall jotting down in my vision book, ‘One day I’ll be part of a reality show akin to The Bachelor’… and here we are.

Hollywood Inc.

Over the weekend, Netflix organized a massive gathering for fans in Inglewood, attracting countless attendees who came together to celebrate and gain insights into their beloved series and films produced by Netflix.

On the very same day when “Let’s Marry Harry” started accepting applicants, Jowsey decided to skip a late meal and head over to Netflix Summer Break instead – an exciting gathering at the Santa Monica Pier featuring Netflix’s reality show celebrities that attracted approximately 450 attendees.

Jowsey and his group climbed into a sleek black SUV on their way to the Netflix gathering. When queried about the perfect individual he’s searching for, Jowsey replied, “I want someone who is content. I’m going in without any preconceived notions … ‘my type’ … hasn’t been successful.

At the event, he snapped pictures, one on a red lip-shaped couch and another under a big Netflix Summer Break sign by the boardwalk. The setting was reminiscent of a lively beach carnival during summer, filled with upbeat pop and R&B tunes, colorful cotton candy stands, food trucks, and themed beverages like “I Do” (a gin drink) and “I Do… Not” (a cocktail with tequila).

As I strolled through the bustling crowd, I received some enthusiastic shouts. “Harry, you’re a total heartthrob!” one spectator exclaimed to me. I had the pleasure of meeting Tanner Smith from Netflix’s “Love on the Spectrum,” Mark L. Walberg, the host of “Temptation Island,” and even posed for photos with the cast members from “The Wrong Paris.” This intriguing movie is about a woman who believes she’s joining a dating show in Paris, France, but discovers it’s actually in Paris, Texas instead. What a twist!

Hollywood Inc.

Analysts on Wall Street have, for some time now, considered Netflix as the leading contender in the battle of streaming services. However, they no longer disclose the number of their subscribers on a quarterly basis.

As I sit down for this final interview, I can’t help but reflect on my journey through those reality dating shows. However, I assure you, dear interlocutor, that this is indeed the last one – at least for now. Your doubt is palpable, and I understand why; it seems as if I’ve been on this rollercoaster ride forever. But trust me, this time, I mean it.

He hasn’t had the best track record in love.

In simpler terms, his romantic involvement with “Too Hot to Handle” co-star Francesca Farago didn’t last after he popped the question using a candy ring. He initially found Jessica Vestal appealing on “Perfect Match,” but later kissed fellow contestant Melinda Melrose and was dishonest about it.

Hollywood Inc.

Netflix, as it increases its investment in video games, is broadening its game selection to include titles inspired by hit reality series such as ‘Too Hot to Handle’ and ‘Selling Sunset.’

In simpler terms, Jowsey expressed that he no longer wishes to cause pain to others, which can be challenging considering the fundamental aspect of “The Bachelor” series is eliminating potential suitors.

Jowsey expressed his hope that whoever he ends up marrying is incredibly happy, outweighing any potential pain. He feels that if it isn’t the right match and they stay together for a prolonged period, the breakup could cause more pain, so he wants to minimize their suffering as much as possible.

Following his interviews, Jowsey made an appearance onstage during Netflix’s Summer Break event, a night filled with reality TV personalities receiving awards like ‘Favorite Reality Couple’, and other stars promoting their shows. The event’s host, AJ McLean from the Backstreet Boys, singled out Jowsey as one of his personal favorite charmers.

Hollywood Inc.

Netflix launched over 800 ‘Bridgerton’-themed props, allowing fans an opportunity to step into the world of the series and imagine themselves as characters within it.

As the Netflix Summer Break event was wrapping up, the reality TV personalities were preparing to enjoy an exclusive hour on the pier’s rides. “Remember not to overindulge in drinks before you ride the roller coasters,” McLean advised, suggesting that everyone should “enjoy food and drinks, have fun, and definitely create content too.

For Jowsey, however, his focus lies on a future that transcends reality television. In a regular day, he shared, he rises at either 5 or 6 a.m., dedicating his time to stock trading. Among the businesses he has invested in is Netflix.

“I realize this reality TV, this life, it’s all kind of rented,” Jowsey said.

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2025-08-05 13:32