Romeo & Duet start date as Oti Mabuse hosts new ITV singing dating show

Oti Mabuse is to host brand new ITV dating show Romeo & Duet.

The Strictly Come Dancing star will turn musical matchmaker as presenter of the series which starts on TV soon.

Romeo & Duet will see single love seekers stand on a breathtaking balcony as they are serenaded by potential love matches that they can hear, but not see.

ITV says: “The seven-part prime time series, due for broadcast on ITV and ITV Hub later this year, gives its singers just one song to entice a singleton down from the balcony. Only then will the two come face-to-face for the first time.

“The newly formed couple will then head off on a duet-date to learn, you’ve guessed it, a duet, before returning later in the show to perform that duet in the ultimate romantic love battle; a singing competition against the other couples to be crowned the winners.”

Romeo & Duet will begin on Saturday, 16 April at 7PM on ITV.

Oti Mabuse said: “I’m so excited to be part of Romeo & Duet. It’s always been a dream of mine to host so this is a real pinch me moment, and it’s a blessing for me to finally be able to share this news. I honestly can’t wait to get started!

“It’s about love with a little bit of a twist and showcase of talent, it’s fresh and fun, and I hope everyone’s going to love it as much as I do. Thank you to Katie Rawcliffe, Mel Crawford and Joe Mace for believing in me and giving me this incredible opportunity.”

Throughout the series Oti is joined on stage by musical director Vikki Stone and her sensational live band Vikki Stone & The Heartbeats, who provide the perfect soundtrack for each sizzling performance.

Katie Rawcliffe, Head of Entertainment Commissioning at ITV, added: “Romeo & Duet is a fun twist on the dating show format, and Oti Mabuse is the perfect choice to host this entertaining cross between music and matchmaking.”

The show is the latest gig for Oti who has joined Dancing On Ice as a new judge for its latest series.

Oti also appeared as a celebrity detective on The Masked Dancer in 2021.

However Oti announced recently she would be leaving Strictly Come Dancing as a professional dancer after seven years.

She said: “I can’t put in to words how difficult this decision has been, but I have decided not to return for the next series.

“Dance will always be my first love and to everyone, my family, friends, Strictly fans who have been my support throughout my Strictly journey, thank you for being incredible! You are irreplaceable in my heart and have made every day unforgettable! I love you.