Netflix hit dating show 'may never return' despite huge ratings

Too Hot To Handle has reportedly been put 'on hold.' The future of the Netflix dating show, which has so far aired six series since it began in 2020, future has been left in doubt, according to insiders.

The format of the programme was similar to ITV2's Love Island, in that a group of singletons are placed in a tropical location, but unlike its natural rival, the contestants must resist from becoming physical with each other as they look for love, all in an attempt to reach the final and win the prize money.

But, warning fans that the show may 'never' come back for another run of episodes, a source told The Sun : "Execs at both terrestrial channels and streamers are increasingly using terms such as “on hold” and “resting” for shows that do not repeat as expected — and many never return."

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The insider also noted that a number of other titles created by the global streamer have also been passed over in favour others, and new programmes like Emma and Matt Wills' Love Is Blind are 'doing very well' in terms of ratings.

The source added: “And a lot of entertainment shows on Netflix have bitten the dust already this year, ranging from Celebrity Bear Hunt to Cheat: Unfinished Business. So, although Too Hot To Handle may return, the signs are not good in the current environment, where competition for viewers is fierce and other dating shows like Netflix’s Love Is Blind are doing very well!"

The Mirror has contacted Netflix for comment.

The first series of the programme aired amid the COVID-19 pandemic, and consisted of nine episodes. It was this programme that launched the career of influencer Francesca Farago and reality star Harry Jowsey, who went onto appear on a string of other similar shows, including Perfect Match and Dancing with the Stars.

Immediately after the success of the first series, Netflix commissioned another two outings for the programme. By 2022, the show was in its fourth series and a fifth followed in 2023. Its sixth series aired last year, and it all came down to Bri and DeMari and Katherine and Charlie with their fellow Too Hot To Handle stars having to vote for their winners.

And almost unanimously, the group decided their champions would be Bri and DeMari who were awarded with a whopping $100,000.

From the offset, Bri and DeMari had their troubles with each of them going on dates and kissing other people at the villa.

But things turned around when Bri remained loyal to DeMari after going on a date with Jalen, leading to him asking her to be his girlfriend.

After the announcement was made, Bri said: "This has been such an unreal experience.

“I'm leaving with a man, I'm past all my trust issues and six figures? Yeah!", with DeMari adding: "This is like storybook ending."

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