The viral dating series Pop The Balloon, which first gained traction on YouTube, is making a big leap to Netflix with a live, interactive twist. Created by Arlette Amuli, the series has captivated millions online and is now set to debut as Pop The Balloon Live, airing every Thursday at 8 p.m. ET, starting April 10.
The high-stakes dating experiment challenges singles to explore their chemistry while keeping their balloon intact. As romantic sparks fly and emotions run high, the rule is simple: if your balloon bursts, your chance at love ends. The new Netflix adaptation will be hosted by Yvonne Orji, best known for her role in Insecure, bringing her signature blend of charm and humor to this exciting, live format.
A Viral Success Comes to Netflix
Amuli and her husband, Bolia Matundu, have produced nearly 50 episodes of Pop The Balloon or Find Love on YouTube, amassing over 100 million views. Netflix’s acquisition of the series is part of the platform’s strategy to adapt viral social media hits into full-fledged series, following in the footsteps of its partnership with The Sidemen and the success of shows like Inside.
The Netflix version will feature a mix of well-known reality television personalities, including Johnny Bananas (from The Challenge), Chase DeMoor (from Too Hot to Handle), Farrah Abraham (from Teen Mom), and Zaina Sesay (from The Ultimatum). Produced by Sony Pictures Television’s Sharp Entertainment, the same studio behind 90 Day Fiancé, this adaptation promises a blend of romance, drama, and plenty of unpredictable moments.
Behind the Scenes
The series’ executive producers include Matt Sharp, Dan Adler, Bonnie Biggs, Ellen Rocamora, Bolia Matundu, and Arlette Amuli. In a statement, Amuli and Matundu expressed their excitement about bringing the show to a global audience:
“We’re thrilled to see Pop The Balloon take on a new life at Netflix. From day one, love and fun have been at the heart of this series, and watching it grow beyond our wildest dreams has been incredible. As executive producers, we’re proud to support this next chapter and can’t wait for both new and longtime fans to experience it. Yvonne is engaging, witty, and authentic—we’re excited for her to bring her energy to the reimagined version on Netflix.”
What to Expect
With its viral appeal and interactive nature, Pop The Balloon Live is poised to become Netflix’s next unscripted hit, blending romance and competition in a fresh and engaging way that keeps audiences hooked from week to week.
