Missing Virgin Island? 3 more reality shows for a loved-up summer
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IT WAS the hit Channel 4 show that saw 12 adult virgins discovering themselves – and intimacy – on an island retreat in Croatia.
From their emotional vulnerability to the joy of being carefree in the moment, it's safe to say the participants of Virgin Island stole the hearts of the nation.
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First Dates host Fred Sirieix (right) with one of the show's stars Merlin Griffiths
Now the series has come to an end, are you looking to fill the void it's left behind?
Channel 4 has a plethora of shows to choose from, and we've lined up three reality series that are perfect if you loved Virgin Island.
Remember the first time
Want to continue the theme of firsts? Why not tap into one of Channel 4's most successful franchises: First Dates.
Making matches for over a decade, TV's most wholesome dating show is back with its 24th season.
If you've not seen the show before (where have you been?), just like Virgin Island, First Dates provides heartwarming, authentic encounters between genuine people.
With everyone looking for one thing – love – the show provides the most romantic interactions, as well as some hilarious moments that could only happen on a first date.
Hosted by TV favourite Fred Sirieix and his stellar team, will this season bring us another First Dates wedding?
Or will there be more awkward meetings of exes or first date fails?
One thing's certain: this series of firsts will satisfy your reality loving needs!
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Relationship gurus Anna Williamson and Paul Carrick Brunson (middle) help stars find true love in Celebs Go Dating
Guided by experts
Do you love the knowledge and wisdom an expert brings to a reality show?
Virgin Island had its sexologists, whereas another Channel 4 show brings a different type of boffin – the relationship experts.
Paul Carrick Brunson and Anna Williamson have entered the chat.
They are the relationship experts who guide six hopeless celebrities in their quests to find true love in Celebs Go Dating.
From date debriefs to raw, honest chats, the experts provide the no-nonsense advice we wish we could tell celebrities when we read about their relationships online!
Back for series 14, the show is set to be a juicy one this year.
The line-up includes pop star and reality TV legend Kerry Katona, as well as other familiar faces including Olivia Hawkins, Louis Russell, Jon Lee, Mark Labbett and Christine McGuinness.
There's nothing more satisfying than learning that celebs are just like us and have the same first date jitters that we do.
Expect some hilarious moments, awkward convos and straight-talking advice as we watch the celeb agency clients navigate the world of dating someone 'normal'!
Let's just hope no one gets with a fellow celebrity this year.
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A rowdy crew, mad guest requests, lovely boats – it's all in Below Deck Mediterranean
Reality in paradise
Virgin Island takes place on an idyllic retreat set in the stunning waters of Croatia.
If you're craving more sea, sun and summer reality TV vibes, then Below Deck Mediterranean should be next on your watchlist!
The latest season is available on Channel 4, letting you dive into the world of yachting and the super-rich.
With Captain Sandy at the helm, along with her rowdy crew, can the team master the guests' wild demands while also navigating their own personal lives?
Expect mishaps, close calls, lavish themed nights and some rather bonkers guest requests – maybe paradise isn't so stress-free after all!
Already watched the drama in the Med? Find more onboard action in the Caribbean and Australia by streaming Below Deck or Below Deck Down Under.
Hot dates to watch out for
NEVER miss an episode this summer. Here's when to watch with Channel 4…
First Dates
Catch up with Fred and the gang, and all the hilarious first dates in series 1 to 23 – available now. Series 24 episodes are dropping weekly.
Celebs Go Dating
Series 1 to 13 are available, with season 14 episodes coming each week from August 4.
Below Deck
Season 11 of Below Deck has just arrived, with episodes dropping weekly.
You can also watch the latest season of Below Deck Mediterranean.
Keep an eye out for the new series of Below Deck Sailing Yacht launching on August 6.
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Stream the new season of Below Deck now for all the latest reali-tea!
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