The rise of LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream media has made its mark on reality dating shows, bringing inclusivity and diverse narratives to the screen. From heartwarming moments to entertaining drama, these 15 dating shows provide a platform for LGBTQ+ contestants to find love in unique and exciting ways.

The Boyfriend (Netflix)
Over a month, a group of nine men live together and run a coffee truck, forming connections and hopefully meeting their next boyfriend. Season 1 was a hit, and Netflix just recently confirmed that the show will return for Season 2.

For the Love of DILFs (OUTtv)
Hosted by Stormy Daniels, this explosive dating show follow two groups of gay men, ‘Daddies’ and ‘Himbos’, as they compete to find love and win a $10,000 investment into their relationship.

Dating Around (Netflix)
Netflix’s first original dating show, it follows real people as they date a range of different individuals in one episode. LGBTQ+ contestants have brought their stories of love, vulnerability, and connection to the series.

Are You The One? (MTV)
As they spend 10 weeks living together, contestants try to find their perfect match as true love is put to the test. In Season 8, the show featured an entirely queer cast, who placed no gender limitations on potential partners.

First Dates (RTÉ2)
In this heart-warming Irish series, singletons of all orientations are paired up in the hopes of finding an authentic connection. There is an array of LGBTQ+ people taking part in the blind dates – maybe even a few familiar faces!

Naked Attraction (Channel 4)
A bold and controversial show where contestants strip off to find love, offering an unapologetically inclusive approach to relationships. The series includes LGBTQ+ contestants and even released a Pride special in 2022.

Lovestruck High (Prime Video)
This UK dating series is set in a high school-themed environment, where contestants, several of whom are LGBTQ+, compete for love while navigating drama and relationships in a fun, youthful way.

Ex on the Beach (MTV)
This messy and entertaining reality dating show sees contestants, including LGBTQ+ individuals, face their exes while trying to find new love.

I Kissed a Boy (BBC Three)
Known as the UK’s first gay dating series, Dannii Minogue plays cupid for a group of queer men trying to find love in an inclusive and open-hearted atmosphere.

I Kissed a Girl (BBC Three)
A spin-off of the above, this show has the same premise, but instead follows a group of queer women. It was a hit upon its release in 2024, and viewers are eagerly awaiting an announcement of a second season.

The Ultimatum: Queer Love (Netflix)
A spin-off of The Ultimatum, this show features queer couples at a crossroads in their relationships, allowing them to explore their emotions and connection with others in a unique experiment.

Finding Prince Charming (Logo TV)
Hosted by Lance Bass, this dating show features a gay lead looking for love among 13 suitors, offering an engaging and emotional experience for viewers.

The Bi Life (E!)
Hosted by Courtney Act, this British dating show features bisexual and questioning individuals on an adventure to find love abroad in Barcelona.

Boy Meets Boy (Bravo)
This relic from the past is described as the “groundbreaking gay dating reality show that swept America off its feet”. Half of the contestants identified as gay and the other half as straight, and the leading man, James Getzlaff, did not know who was who. In order to win a $25,000 reward at the end of the season, Getzlaff had to choose a gay-identifying man to couple up with.

The Circle (Netflix)
Although not specifically a dating show, this social media-based reality competition has somehow morphed into one. It has featured LGBTQ+ players throughout its various seasons, who form genuine connections, whether romantic or platonic.

These 15 unmissable dating shows not only offer entertainment but also play a vital role in championing LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream media. From heartfelt moments to playful drama, each show highlights the beauty of inclusivity and the importance of embracing all forms of love. And if you’re looking for even more exciting shows, why not check out our other curated list linked here for more unmissable dating and relationship series?