The upcoming Hulu series “Are You My First?” has already generated significant excitement ahead of its premiere on August 18, 2023. Even before the show airs, co-host Colton Underwood has reported a remarkable influx of applicants wishing to participate in a potential second season, revealing a growing interest in the concept of virginity and dating on national television.
Underwood, who gained fame as a former star of “The Bachelor,” stated, “I have never had so many virgins sliding into my DMs.” He expressed optimism about the casting for Season 2, mentioning that friends of potential contestants have also been nominating candidates, resulting in a curated list for future episodes. The series features 21 virgins, aged between 24 and 34, who are on their journey to lose their virginity in a supportive environment.
Co-host Kaitlyn Bristowe, known for her role in “The Bachelorette” back in 2015, reflects on her own experiences in the dating reality television landscape. Bristowe faced criticism for being open about her sexual relationships during her season, which has influenced her empathetic approach to the virgins participating in “Are You My First?” She noted, “It gave me a bit more empathy for people who chose not to have sex because I was like, ‘Well, who am I to judge those people seeing how badly I got judged?’”
Bristowe found it fascinating to witness the contestants’ cautious approach to intimacy. One participant, Katya, a 28-year-old theatre artist from Manhattan, said she would require her love interest to “earn” a kiss. Bristowe commented on the contrast between her own experience on “The Bachelorette,” where she was quick to explore chemistry with multiple suitors, and the more measured, deliberate style of the current cast. “This is like a sweeter, softer version,” she observed.
Underwood, now 33, also shared his complex journey with virginity and relationships. He became the first virgin Bachelor during his season and later revealed his sexuality after dating contestant Cassie Randolph. Reflecting on the reasons individuals might choose to delay losing their virginity, he acknowledged that many contestants, including some who identify as Mormon, shared their religion as a significant factor.
He stated, “As a Christian man, it is easy to hide behind your faith… when you have other insecurities and other traumatic things that you’re trying to work through.” This perspective sheds light on the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the contestants, some of whom may surprise viewers with their unique stories.
The hosts also encountered moments of awkwardness during filming. Underwood recounted a comedic incident involving a contestant who revealed his celebrity crush was the late President William Howard Taft. “I didn’t even know who that is,” he admitted, highlighting the sometimes humorous dynamics of the show. Bristowe echoed this sentiment, noting that the uncomfortable silences during interactions posed a challenge, saying, “Everything in me wants to step in and be like, ‘Somebody say something!’”
“Are You My First?” aims to provide a fresh take on dating reality television, focusing on genuine connections rather than the often chaotic scenes typical of the genre. With its unique premise and a cast committed to intentional courtship, the show is poised to engage audiences and spark conversations about relationships and personal choices in the modern dating landscape.
