Your ultimate recap of ITV's dating show My Mum, Your Dad
Also known as 'middle-aged Love Island'
Reality TV fans were over the moon last year when ITV bosses announced a 'middle-aged' Love Island was in the works, with the working title of The Romance Retreat. After Davina McCall was confirmed as the host earlier this year, bosses later revealed the show's new name, start date and cast, and now the series is over.
Unveiled as My Mum, Your Dad, the groundbreaking new show aired every night on ITV/STV for two weeks in September, and now it has been commissioned for a second series!
What is My Mum, Your Dad?
Previously known as The Romance Retreat and middle-aged Love Island, My Mum, Your Dad is a brand new dating show which aired on ITV1/STV1.
Dubbed as 'a dating show with a difference for the whole family', My Mum, Your Dad followed a group of single parents who had been nominated for the show by their grown-up kids for a second chance at love.
Filmed at a stunning country house, viewers got the chance to follow the single parents as they attempted to find love.
However, just like most shows, there was a MAJOR twist! Unbeknownst to the parents, their children were watching in 'The Bunker', where they got the opportunity to play matchmaker and decide their mum or dad's fate.
Paul Mortimer, Director of Reality and Acquisitions commented: “My Mum, Your Dad is set to be a relationship show with a difference, as we follow the emotional and inspiring journeys of single parents looking to find love once more. Packed full of heart and humour, we’re really excited to be bringing this brand new format to ITV1’s mainstream audience. With Davina at the helm, this will be a grown-up iteration of a series in the dating genre that, thus far, has largely been the preserve of younger viewers.”
When was My Mum, Your Dad on TV?
The show started on Monday 11th September at 9pm. The show run on consecutive weeknights for two weeks, with the final episode airing on Friday 22nd September.
The first full-length trailer for My Mum, Your Dad was released at the end of August, offering viewers a first glimpse of the contestants and their children as they embarked on the journey of finding love in a stunning country house.
During the Love Island final on Monday 31st August, the first teaser trailer aired, confirming the series would begin in the Autumn.
Who is still together from My Mum, Your Dad?
Despite all forming connections in the retreat, not all of the couples stayed together. Following the final episode, the cast took to social media to reveal all...
Check out which couples are still together below:
Natalie and Paul
44-year-old Natalie was nominated by her son Kaliel for the show, and she was quick to make an impression with 47-year-old Paul, who was nominated by his daughter Mazey. The pair had an instant connection in the retreat and were the first couple to share a snog during the school disco party. Since that moment, they enjoyed getting to know each other more, and displayed a lot of affection around the other cast mates, looking very comfortable in each other's company. On their final date, Natalie even opened up to Paul about her past addictions and troubles.
The positive vibes continued when the pair met each other's kids during the final episode, with both Natalie and Paul being full of praise for each other, both admitting they want things to work outside of the retreat after getting the blessing of Kaliel and Mazey.
Are Natalie and Paul still together?
Unfortunaly not. Despite viewers having high hopes for the pair, one day after the final episode aired they took to social media to release a joint statement which read: Firstly just wanted to say thank you for the overwhelming support from everyone who has watched the show and how invested you have been with our journey. It was an incredible experience and one that we will be forever grateful for taking part in.
'Nat and I had an incredible experience in the retreat and loved every moment, we continued that connection over the summer and had some great times together. Unfortunately in early August we decided to call a day on the relationship. We are both still friends and wish each other the best. Thank you for your continued support and we're very thankful to @davinamccall @itv @mymumyourdaduk for all we gained from the experience❤️'. (sic)
Janey and Roger
58-year-old Roger was nominated by his daughter Jess for the show, following the sad passing of his wife last year. Despite initially enjoying a date with Scottish contestant Caroline, it was the arrival of 47-year-old Janey, who was nominated by her son Will, that really helped Roger open up. After cooling things with Caroline so he could explore things further with Janey, the pair enjoyed spending time together in the retreat, and even shared their first kiss during their final date.
Despite Janey's son Will and Roger's daughter Jess having a few reserves, when they met during the final episode it appeared these were put to bed, with both kids giving their parents their blessings.
Are Janey and Roger still together?
They are! One day after the final episode aired, both Janey and Roger took to social media to confirm they are still going strong. Janey shared a picture of the pair cuddling in bed, whilst Roger posted a photo of the pair at the beach, revealing they are happier than ever!
Since then, the couple have shared loved-up holiday photos, and even discussed future marriage plans! The happy couple have also landed themselves a job on This Morning!
Sharon and Elliott
Sunderland lass Sharon was nominated by her daughter Tia for the show, after suffering heartbreak in her past relationships. The 53-year-old quickly caught the eye of 53-year-old PE Teacher Elliott, with the couple enjoying get to know each other in the retreat. Despite their obvious connection, Sharon struggled to be open with Elliot due to her past trauma in relationships, but Elliott was quick to reassure her that he was willing to go at a slow pace in order to pursue the romance.
Whilst meeting each other's children during the final episode, both Sharon and Elliott seemed positive about the future, despite the long-distance between the two in Sunderland and Essex. Sharon's daughter Tia and Elliott's son Zachary both championed the relationship, both giving their blessings.
Are Sharon and Elliott still together?
After the show aired, both Sharon and Elliott shared cosy snaps together on social media, revealing they have plans to move into together. HOWEVER, in November 2023, reports emerged that the pair had split, with Sharon unfollowing Elliott on Instagram.
Despite the reports, the pair are yet to publicly announce the news.
Monique and Martin M
After being nominated for the show by her daughter Taiya, things got off to a slow start for 50-year-old Monique, with the therapist admitting she wasn't attracted to any of the men. However, when new arrivals Martin M and Martin H arrived into the retreat, Monique came into her own! Following a number of dates with the Martins, Monique found herself in a love square alongside fellow contestant Tollulah, but during the final few episodes, Martin M admitted his feelings were strongest for Monique. The pair then enjoyed a final date together, where Monique hinted she'd be happy to move to Ibiza, where Martin lives!
However, following the visit from her daughter Taiya during the final episode, Monique had doubts about Martin's true feelings, later quizzing him about his actions towards her during their time in the retreat.
As fans will know, Monique ended things with Martin during the final episode, admitting she felt they just weren't right for each other. Following the conversation, Martin admitted the experience has taught him to take people's feelings into consideration more. The pair left the retreat as friends.
How many episodes?
The series featured 10, one-hour long episodes.
Richard Cowles, Managing Director of Lifted Entertainment, said: “At Lifted, we revolutionised the dating format with Love Island, but dating isn't just about young people. We can't wait to launch this new dating format in the UK, this time with a very different cast of singles. They may come from a different age bracket but they share the same, simple aim, to fall in love. And for single parents the stakes are even higher. We're delighted to have Davina at the helm teasing out these hugely relatable stories in a heartwarming and entertaining way.”
Due to the football on Friday 22nd September, the final episode aired at 10pm, an hour later than its usual 9pm.
Will there be a reunion show?
Despite fans begging bosses for a reunion show, it seems there's no plans as of yet.
Following the final show, host Davina tweeted: 'Thank you all so much for watching with me and tweeting along ❤️ let’s start campaigning for a catch up !!! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ '.
Who were the contestants on My Mum, Your Dad?
The singletons looking for love were unveiled on Tuesday 5th September, alongside their kids who nominated them.
Speaking about the cast, host Davina said: "There's a guy in there who is a widow. His daughter nominated him for the show and the really touching thing is that, just the act of his daughter dropping him off at the retreat to go and potentially try and meet someone, is the sweetest thing, because you know how hard it must be for her to give permission to her dad to move on from her mum.
"There's another one of the guys who I found interesting because he was a confident guy, he was fun, but once he got into the retreat, he was so quiet. One lady’s daughter feels a bit responsible for her mum's happiness. They are best friends, but she doesn’t really like the idea of leaving home while her mum's alone.
"Then we have another guy who I needed to give a pep talk to. He was amazing in his chosen profession, but he really struggles with self-confidence"
During episode two on Tuesday 12th September, Martin H arrived as a late arrival into the retreat, after being nominated by his daughter Jessica. Janey also arrived at the retreat after being nominated by her son Will.
On Wednesday 13th September, Martin M arrived, after being nominated by his son Luke, along with Tolullah, who had been nominated by her daughter Georgia-Blu.
Check out the cast below:
Monique and Taiya
Monique - Nominated by her daughter Taiya
Age: 50
From: Winchmore Hill
Occupation: Therapist/Student
Taiya
Age: 21
From: North London
Occupation: Student
Sharon and Tia
Sharon - Nominated by her daughter Tia
Age: 53
From: Sunderland
Occupation: Safeguarding and Welfare Officer in Education
Tia
Age: 24
From: Sunderland
Occupation: Social Media Influencer
Caroline and Carli
Caroline - Nominated by her daughter Carli
Age: 51
From: South Lanarkshire
0ccupation: Tech Advisor/Scan Assistant
Carli
Age: 20
From: South Lanarkshire
Occupation: Flight Attendant
Natalie and Kaliel
Natalie - Nominated by her son Kaliel
Age: 44
From: Bournemouth
Occupation: Self-Esteem and Relationship Recovery Coach
Kaliel
Age: 20
From: Bournemouth
Occupation: Gas and Plumbing Apprentice
Paul and Mazey
Paul - Nominated by his daughter Mazey
Age: 47
From: London
Occupation: Owner of a Decorating Company
Mazey
Age: 21
From: Bath
Occupation: University Student
Clayton and Christian
Clayton - Nominated by his son Christian
Age: 57
From: Nottingham
Occupation: Pastoral Support Officer
Christian
Age: 35
From: Nottingham
Occupation: Graphic Artist/Warehouse Employee
Roger and Jess
Roger - Nominated by his daughter Jess
Age: 58
From: Derbyshire
Occupation: Postman
Jess
Age: 28
From: Derbyshire
Occupation: Network Rail Planner
Elliot and Zachary
Elliot - Nominated by his son Zachary
Age: 53
From: Essex
Occupation: PE Teacher and Football Coach
Zachary
Age: 21
From: Essex
Occupation: University Student
Janey and Will
Janey - Nominated by her son Will
Age: 47
From: West Sussex
Occupation: Singer/Recruitment Manager
Will
Age: 19
From: West Sussex
Occupation: Student
Martin H and Jessica
Martin H - Nominated by his daughter Jessica
Age: 56
From: Birmingham - Lives in Epson
Occupation: Retired basketball player/Sports Presenter and MD
Jessica
Age: 23
From: Epsom
Occupation: Model/Sales & Marketing/Mental Health Skills Coaching
Tolullah and Georgia-Blu
Tolullah - Nominated by her daughter Georgia-Blu
Age: 50
From: London
Occupation: Design consultant/Journalist
Georgia-Blu
Age: 28
From: London
From: Chartered Accountant
Martin M and Luke
Martin M - Nominated by his son Luke
Age: 52
From: Derby/Lives in Ibiza
Occupation: Property developer
Luke
Age: 18
From: Ibiza
Occupation: Bartender
Who was eliminated?
During the episode on Tuesday 19th September, Caroline and Clayton were the first contestants to be eliminated from the retreat. The kids chose to eliminate both Caroline and Clayton after they failed to make any romantic connections.
Tollulah and Martin H then left the retreat Wednesday 20th September.
Who hosted the show?
It was announced back in March 2023 that former Big Brother host Davina McCall would be hosting the show.
She said of the upcoming show: “Thank goodness the secret is finally out! I’ve been bursting to tell!!! I’m so so excited to host My Mum, Your Dad - this show will have you so invested in the people in it. Fascinating, vibrant individuals who have lived incredible lives already, with a million life lessons under their belts, as they search for their perfect life partner. But also with the juiciest twist of any show I’ve ever worked on.”
Back in March, Davina told her Instagram followers: 'Omg.. i manifested and it came true !! I’ll be hosting a brand NEW grown up dating series for ITV1 !! ❤️ This is a show for single parents who have lived a life , have stories to tell about their dating pasts and deserve another chance at love and I’m gonna help you ❤️ ❤️ ❤️ It will all take place in the most romantic countryside location !! 🎉🥰💥 🙌🏻🙌🏻 We are still casting so if u want my help finding love and u have a child who is over 18 , what are you waiting for ??? ( particularly u eligible men .. where are you ?! 👀) Sign up here itv.com/beontv It’s going to be AMAZING !! x'. (sic)
Where was it filmed?
Filming took place in a luxury country manor house in Midhurst, West Sussex, which boasts a massive garden, a swimming pool, and a swanky indoor bar!
When was it filmed?
Filming took place in May 2023.
What channel was it on?
My Mum, Your Dad aired on ITV1 and ITVX, and STV1 and the STV Player for viewers in Scotland.
All episodes are now available to catch up on ITVX and STV Player.
Was it like Love Island?
Despite initially being dubbed as 'middle-aged Love Island', host Davina McCall has revealed the show is totally different!
She said: "I totally get the comparisons - and I have inadvertently called it this myself - but it's really not the same show.
"The music, the setting, the grown-up kids being involved in their parents' love lives, it's very different. Once viewers see the show they’ll see how different it is. Love Island is great, I watch it with my kids, but this is a totally different show and there is room for both."
Going on to explain the show further, Davina said: "So everybody in there is in what you would call midlife, I would say, ranging from mid-40s up to late 50s. Everybody is in there because they want a second chance at love. They want to find somebody. I think what you are looking for is very different when you are in mid-life. When you've been through relationships, perhaps have had kids, they have grown up and the things that you are seeking are different in terms of companionship and chemistry."
How did people leave the retreat?
Ahead of the start of the series, Davina also explained the format of the show, revealing how people leave the retreat.
She said: "So people did leave the retreat and new people came in. But they don't get evicted or chucked out.
"It's a decision that the grown-up kids come up with, they can see that their parent hasn’t made a connection and eventually their grown-up kid says, 'Okay, I think it's time for them to leave. They’re not getting anything from this anymore. I want them to come home where they can start using what they’ve learnt home where they can start using what they’ve learnt to date a bit closer to home'"
Who created the show?
My Mum, Your Dad was created by father and daughter Haley and Greg Daniels, with Lifted Entertainment, part of ITV Studios.
Will there be a second series of My Mum, Your Dad?
On Monday 16th October, bosses confirmed they'd commissioned the show for a second series!
Paul Mortimer, ITV Director of Reality and Acquisitions commented: “The positive reaction to series one was unprecedented in my experience. From widower Roger finding new love, to the grown-up kids cringing in the secret Bunker as their parents dusted down their dating moves, this was a fresh and welcome take on TV matchmaking. I'm so pleased to be able to once again open the retreat to more single parents in 2024.”
Richard Cowles, Managing Director of Lifted Entertainment, said: “The heartfelt reaction to this show was incredible and we are absolutely delighted that ITV are bringing it back for another series. There was real joy in watching the amazing relationships between the grown-up kids and their parents; they cried as their parents' vulnerabilities showed and cringed as new connections and dates played out. My Mum, Your Dad has heart, warmth and laughs in every show and that really resonated with viewers.
Can I apply to be on the show?
You can! Applications for series two are now open, with grown-children asked to nominate their single parents for the show.
See which other TV shows you can apply to be on:
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Following the success of the first series in 2023, bosses were quick to commission Deal or No Deal for a second series, and now applications are open!
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