The popular YouTube dating series Pop the Balloon is getting a major revamp this spring as it makes its way to Netflix, with actress Yvonne Orji stepping in as the new host.
This revamped version promises to deliver the same chemistry, surprises, and viral moments that fans loved in the original, but with even more unexpected twists.
For those unfamiliar with the show, created by Arlette Amuli and Bolia Matundu, Pop the Balloon is a dating series that attempts to match singles by using the unique gesture of a balloon.
The objective is for the participants to pop the balloon of a single man or woman they feel no chemistry with, while also exploring potential love interests through a series of questions.
In the newly reimagined version, the show will be live, meaning real-time eliminations, unpredictable drama, and even more cringe-worthy moments will unfold for viewers in real time.
The original show already delivered some viral moments, including the breakout star Aaron the Plumber, who became a fan favorite with his hilarious commentary and unfiltered charm.
Other memorable moments from the original series include a woman being told her face was “too wrinkly” for a man to date, and another woman telling a man she couldn’t date him because he “looked like he read a lot of books.”
‘Pop The Balloon’ Famed Youtube Show
Along with everyday contestants, the new version will also feature some familiar reality TV faces, such as Johnny Bananas from The Challenge, Chase DeMoor from Too Hot to Handle, Farrah Abraham from Teen Mom, and Zaina Sesay from The Ultimatum.
“We’re thrilled to see Pop the Balloon take on a new life on Netflix,” said creators Amuli and Matundu in a press release. “From day one, we’ve kept love and fun at the heart of the show, and watching it evolve and soar beyond our wildest dreams has been truly exciting. As executive producers, we’re proud to support this next chapter and can’t wait for both new and longtime fans to experience it.”
Orji shared her excitement about joining the show as host, saying, “It’s really great to see BM and Arlette’s vision expand to this version, due to their creativity, consistency, and desire for more connection.
After playing the ‘unlucky in love’ Molly Carter for five seasons on Insecure, I know a thing or two about looking for love in a hopeless place. Hopefully, the singles on Pop the Balloon Live will have much more success.”
Yvonne Orji at the 97th Oscars held at the Dolby Theatre on March 2, 2025, in Hollywood, California. Gilbert Flores/Penske Media via Getty Images
Discussing her role as host, Orji added, “As host, I’m looking forward to striking that delicate balance of heart and humor for our daters and the Netflix audience at home.”
The creators also expressed their excitement about Orji replacing Arlette as the host, saying, “Yvonne is engaging, witty, and authentic — and we are looking forward to her serving as the host for the reimagined version at Netflix!”
Pop the Balloon LIVE will premiere on Netflix on April 10, airing every Thursday at 8 P.M.
