Dating in the Dark

Dating in the Dark, is an unique reality dating show that aired on ABC in 2009. Hosted by the charismatic Rossi Morreale, the series provided viewers with an unconventional and paradoxical twist on the conventional dating show routine.

The premise of the series is literal implications of the title. It's a dating show where good looks are taken out of the equation and the focus shifts on getting to know the person before judging them based on their looks. Three men and three women enter into a completely dark room, putting their senses and feelings forward to find a possible connection with the opposite sex.

Each episode of Dating in the Dark begins with three single men and three single women moving into a house. The participants have their separate wings of the house, connected via a dark room where the show’s main action takes place. What lays in front of them is a pitch-black dating experience where they must get to know their potential partners by interacting and communicating in complete darkness.

The concept allowed participants to focus on personality rather than physical appearance by enabling them to know the character of the person they are dating without being influenced by physical appearance. Each participant goes on several dates with multiple prospective matches throughout each episode, offering viewers emotional thrills and romantic tension that often arises in their interactions.

The participants' only contact with each other is in a completely darkened room, hence forcing them to rely upon senses other than visual cues to explore romantic compatibility. They chat, laugh, bond, and sometimes argue, exploring the mysteries of the other person's personality without having any clues about their looks.

After the initial dating sequences in the dark, the participants then step into the light. The 'Reveal' process is where the participants, one by one, are revealed to their selected chosen one while standing in the spotlight, quite literally. This is when they see their date for the first time, allowing viewers to see whether physical attractiveness or a bond based on personality matters more when it comes to establishing lasting connections.

Rossi Morreale, with his charm and intense presence, works perfectly as the host. He seamlessly carries the show forward, fostering anticipation and subtly adding to the tension and excitement. He swiftly transitions into a confidant for participants when they articulate their feelings and reactions to the dates in the dark room. Morreale's charm and style stand out, as he adds intrigue and depth to the unfolding drama – balancing between a narrative guide and emotional pacifier for those involved in the dating process.

After the reveal, the real decision-making process begins. Each participant must decide whether they will meet their revealed partner on the balcony of the house. A meet up on the balcony signifies a desire to continue the relationship outside the show, while a decision to walk away represents a rejection. This final scenario contributes to the dramatic ending of each episode, and sometimes results in emotional reunion or heartbreak.

In an era of reality TV where often physical attractiveness takes precedence, 'Dating in the Dark' presents a refreshing concept that focuses on the personalities of the participants. The show is interesting and intriguing, full of surprises and unexpected twists. Through the process of dating in pitch dark to the revealing moment under the spotlight, and the final decision on the balcony, each episode of 'Dating in the Dark' delivers an exciting journey to witness. The show filled with emotional roller-coasters, offers an introspect into human relationships and attraction.

Dating in the Dark under Rossi Morreale’s excellent hosting felt like an intriguing social experiment, breathing a bit of fresh air into the reality dating show landscape. It made us question our own judgement criteria while choosing our partners, and whether we give enough importance to one’s character over their appearance. The show, indeed is a throwback to 2009 worth watching.