Even before it’s made its official debut, Hulu’s newest dating experiment is already stirring up a surprising amount of buzz. Although the virgin dating series “Are You My First?” hasn’t premiered yet, it’s already been inundated with Season 2 applicants: “I’ve never had so many virgins in my DMs.”
That line comes straight from co-host Colton Underwood, who says hopefuls are already lining up for a chance to join a future season—long before the first episode even airs.
A Show That Hasn’t Launched, but Already Has a Waiting List
“Are You My First?” doesn’t premiere until August 18, but the casting buzz is very real. Underwood, a former “Bachelor” lead, shared that his social media inbox is overflowing—not just with curious fans, but with self-identified virgins and even friends nominating people they think would be perfect for the show.
He’s already saving profiles and screenshots, quietly building what he calls a potential Season 2 list. “When you click on some of these profiles,” he explained, “you’re like, ‘Oh wow, they would actually be great for this.’”
What the Series Is About
Created by the team behind “Love Island,” the Hulu series follows 21 adult virgins, ages 24 to 34, as they navigate dating, attraction, and intimacy in a reality-TV setting. Their goal is simple, but deeply personal: to explore relationships and, potentially, experience many firsts on camera.
Unlike the typical high-drama dating show, this one leans into vulnerability, emotional honesty, and intentional connection rather than shock value.
Kaitlyn Bristowe’s Full-Circle Moment
Underwood is joined by co-host Kaitlyn Bristowe, who famously led “The Bachelorette” in 2015. Back then, she made headlines—and faced harsh criticism—for openly discussing her sex life on the show.
Now, more than a decade later, Bristowe says that experience has given her a new level of compassion for people who choose to wait.
“Being judged so heavily back then made me more empathetic,” she shared. “It really made me think, ‘Who am I to judge anyone else’s choices?’”
Watching the cast hesitate over simple kisses—even requiring someone to “earn” one—felt surreal to her. She compared it to her own season, where physical chemistry was something she explored immediately. Still, she found the slower pace refreshing.
A Softer Kind of Reality TV
Bristowe described the atmosphere as gentler than what audiences are used to. Instead of fast hookups and over-the-top drama, the show highlights awkward first dates, nervous flirting, and the emotional weight of very personal milestones.
“We’re so used to chaotic dating shows,” she said. “This feels sweeter. Softer. And honestly, seeing someone have their first kiss ever on camera? That’s wild in a totally different way.”
Underwood’s Personal Connection to the Story
Underwood’s role hits close to home. When he starred as “The Bachelor” in 2019, he was himself a virgin. After his relationship with winner Cassie Randolph ended, he later came out as gay, opening up about the complex reasons behind his choices.
“My story is complicated,” he admitted. “And that’s what I think people will really understand from this show. There are so many reasons someone might not be ready to have sex when they’re young.”
Several contestants cite faith—many are Mormon or Christian—as a key factor. Underwood acknowledged that religion can sometimes intersect with insecurity, fear, or unresolved trauma, adding layers to each person’s journey.
Breaking Stereotypes About Who’s a Virgin
Viewers might be surprised to see contestants like a cocktail waitress or an NFL cheerleader among the group, but the hosts say it made sense the moment they spent time with them.
“You talk to them for a minute,” Underwood said, “and you’re like, ‘Okay… I get it.’”
The show also captures lighter, awkward moments—like when one contestant revealed his celebrity crush was former President William Howard Taft, leaving Underwood to admit he had no idea who that was.
A Different Kind of Dating Show
“At its core,” both hosts suggest, “Are You My First?” isn’t about shock. It’s about curiosity, courage, and creating space for people whose stories don’t fit the usual reality-TV mold.
And judging by the flood of early messages and would-be contestants, this softer, more vulnerable take on romance might be exactly what viewers didn’t know they were waiting for.
