YouTube Dating Show ‘Pop The Balloon’ Headed To Netflix With Yvonne Orji As Host

The original hosts, Arlette Amuli and Bolia Matundu, will serve as executive producers.

YouTube screenshot

The already viral YouTube dating series Pop the Balloon is getting a major makeover this spring as it heads to Netflix with actress Yvonne Orji as its new host. This reimagined version promises all the chemistry, surprises, and viral moments fans adored in the original, but now with even more twists.

For anyone who isn’t hip to the show created by Arlette Amuli and Bolia Matundu, the series attempts to match singles by using the gesture of a balloon. The goal is to pop the balloon of a single guy or lady who the prospect finds no chemistry with, while vetting out a potential love interest by asking questions.

In the all-new version of the show, things will be live, meaning real-time eliminations, unexpected drama, and even more cringe-worthy moments will take place for the world to see. The show has already served up some viral gems such as its breakout star, Aaron the Plumber, whom became a fan favorite when he appeared on the show for his hilarious commentary and unfiltered charm.

Other moments include a woman being told that her face was “too wrinkly” for a guy to date and even a woman telling a man that she couldn’t date him because he “looked like he read a lot of books.“

Alongside everyday contestants, some familiar faces from reality TV will also make appearances including 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,” stated creators Amuli and Matundu stated 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 also gave her thoughts on joining the show. “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,” she expressed. “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

Speaking to her hosting skills, she 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 doubled down on swapping out Arlette as the host for Orji, 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 begin airing on Netflix every Thursday at 8 P.M. kicking off on April 10.

Netflix

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