Life

Blind Date sends bisexual couple to a country where gay sex is illegal

By Daniel Megarry

7th May 2019

Channel 5

Blind Date is in hot water with viewers.

On the most recent episode of the hit Paul O’Grady-fronted Channel 5 dating show, viewers were treated to the first ever bisexual lineup, as beautician Jordan Shannon chose male model Jesse Drew as his date.

“I’m delighted that Blind Date is continuing to be inclusive by giving a platform to those who identify as bisexual,” said O’Grady. “It was a joy to film and I’m sure Cilla would have been proud.”

But what should have been a groundbreaking moment for bi representation was quickly dashed, as it turned out the two men were being sent on a date to the Caribbean island of Saint Lucia, where sex between men is illegal.

Jordan and Jesse said they didn’t realise this fact until they were already in the country. While they safely returned to the United Kingdom without any trouble, the pair told the Daily Star they were “nervous” to be there.

Jordan said: “I didn’t know [about the law] until I was told on the way to the hotel. I thought, ‘What the fuck?’”

Jesse added: “I was nervous… The hotel security woman told me how most gay men were in the closet there as homosexuality is illegal. It’s 10 years in prison if caught.”

The UK government’s travel advice website warns LGBTQ tourists to exercise caution when visiting Saint Lucia.

“Local attitudes towards the LGBT community are mostly conservative throughout the Caribbean. Public displays of affection (such as hand-holding or kissing) between opposite or same-sex couples are uncommon,” it says.

“Certain homosexual acts are illegal. LGBT travellers should be mindful of local attitudes and be aware that public displays of affection may attract unwanted and negative attention.”

A Channel 5 spokesperson said: “We didn’t know and are taking this up with the production company.”

Viewers can find out how Jordan and Jesse’s date went on Sunday 12 May at 8pm on Channel 5.