Close friend Paul O’Grady is filling Cilla’s shoes having presented the show for 18 years before passing away aged 72 in August 2015.
The 61-year-old comedian will host the new Channel 5 series, while Melanie Sykes takes on the role of “our Graham” with voiceovers.
When the revamp was first announced, TV star Paul admitted that he was “honoured” to have been asked to present.
He said: “Blind Date is an incredibly special family show which brought laughter, tears and joy to TV viewers.
“I am honoured to present the brand new series and after speaking to Channel 5, I know the series is in safe hands.”
Worried that Cilla would not approve of the new show, Paul joked that she may be “throwing plates” at him.
The comic said: “It’s impossible shoes to fill, never mind hard. Cilla did it for so long.
“I hope she won’t be throwing plates at me. I mention her loads of times.”
On the new show’s contestants, he continued to the Mirror: “I have a real laugh with them. It’s been an absolute blinder. The studio audience loved it.”
Battling with flu while filming the show, Paul added: “If you are on your last legs you’re best going on.”
Blind Date is due to air on Channel 5 later this year.
Daily Express :: TV and Radio Feed
