Love Is Blind: Time for the Producers to Produce Real Drama

Love Is Blind Season 7: An Overemphasis on Genuine Matches?

Love Is Blind has long been known for its unique format, thrusting strangers into intimate relationships based solely on chemistry and connection formed in sensory-deprived pods. However, the recent episodes seem to fall short of the high drama and captivating storylines that have made the show a go-to for those looking to witness emotional intensity and conflict. In Season 7, producers have leaned heavily into showcasing what they deem as ‘genuine’ relationships, a decision that has led to the premature exit of two of the most intriguing couples.

Disappointment in Drama: Mason and Meg’s Complex Triangles

Season 7 started with a focus on Mason Horacek and Meg Fink, and Alex Brown and Madison Errichiello. These dynamic duos provided a wealth of fascinating storylines, intertwining emotional dramas and interpersonal conflicts that kept viewers on the edge of their seats. Mason, a charming sales executive with a knack for connecting with different types of women, found himself navigating complex relationships with both Meg and Madison. Meanwhile, Madison, an artist who candidly discusses her trauma, shared a tumultuous journey with both Mason and Alex.

The chemistry between these individuals was undeniable, making their interactions particularly compelling. Among them, Mason and Meg showcased a unique connection fueled by their shared love for the movie Her, while Madison and Alex’s relationship was marked by intense emotional turmoil. Madison’s controversial discussions around certain topics added to the unpredictability and depth of the show. Unfortunately, these stories took a drastic turn, with both couples breaking up before they could even reach the engagement phase.

This pattern continues from Season 6, where Brittany and Leo were booted from the show after all, for being too genuine — a somewhat ironic twist. Instead of fostering the drama that makes the show so engaging, the producers opted for more ‘genuine’ relationships, thus depriving audiences of the intense and often heated dialogues they craved.

After the Pods: Boring Beach Waves & Lack of Drama

The allure of Love Is Blind lies in its ability to prominently feature conflict and emotional depth during and after the pods. Once participants emerge from the sensory deprivation, the stage is typically a melting pot of varying dynamics, from jealousy and suspicion to unexpected alliances. This interplay across different couples turns what could be a mundane process of getting to know someone into an electrifying experience.

This season, however, many of the micro-dramas seem to have fizzled out. With the departure of the two most dramatic couples — Mason and Meg, and Madison and Alex — the remaining storylines lack complexity and excitement. The Show is now primarily focused on a couple navigating a five-year age gap and another whose tensions stem from differing religious beliefs. While these are valid relationship issues, they pale in comparison to the previously showcased conflicts between the more high-energy individuals.

The producers insist that the post-pod phase is meant to be more subdued, as Nick Lachey put it, allowing participants to “get to know each other physically.” While this may serve to create a more natural and less forced engagement, the lack of interpersonal drama is a significant drawback. It implies a season filled with beach montages and social gatherings, devoid of the emotional fireworks that have long characterized the show.

Proactive Production: A Call for More Manipulations

Reality television, by nature, is subject to a degree of manipulation for the sake of crafting compelling narratives. Shows like UnReal even tackle the ethics of these manipulations head-on. While Love Is Blind prides itself on showcasing genuine connections, it is important to strike a balance between authenticity and entertaining storytelling.

Chris Coelen, a producer, recently stated, “We want to follow the ones we feel are genuine. We don’t want people to do stuff for TV.” While this mindset respects the integrity of the participants, it may also be alienating viewers who seek the type of drama that has made Love Is Blind a cult favorite. The abrupt breakups of key couples this season have left viewers yearning for more of the intense storylines they’ve come to expect.

Perhaps it is time for the producers to take a less hands-off approach. Given what happened to Brittany and Leo from last season and the early dismantling of this season’s narrative threads, it is clear that the audience wants to see more of the most interesting matches. By intervening in the relationships that hold the most promise for drama, the producers can ensure that the stories remain both engaging and authentic.

We cannot accept a season where the drama is noticeably absent and the characters seem more like idle vacationers than emotionally entangled participants. Producers must find a way to foster the shifting alliances and competing matches that have made Love Is Blind such a thrilling watch. Meddling in the romantic trajectories might seem counterintuitive, but in the context of reality TV, it is a crucial tool for keeping audiences invested and coming back for more.

Conclusion: Time to Get Back to the Roots

Love Is Blind thriving on genuine connections is commendable, but viewers expect more. The abrupt breakups of high-energy couples like Mason and Meg, and Madison and Alex have detracted significantly from the drama and excitement that characterize the show. As the season progresses, we hope to see a return to the conflict and emotional depth that has been the heart of the series.

In reality TV, where bending the truth can elevate a storyline, amplifying the drama of genuine connections is a fine line. Producers must be willing to facilitate the interactions that will reveal the most compelling narratives. We cannot settle for the superficial drama that often follows relationships in Love Is Blind. Let’s see the messy engagement, the doubt, and the second-guessing; the type of drama that turns a castaway vacation into a life-altering journey.