Fatal First Dates is a 'gripping' true crime series coming to Channel 5 that will leave you terrified to swipe right
They were only looking for loveFatal First Dates is set to send shivers through the spines of any singletons watching thanks to its true life tales of deadly modern romance.
The “gripping” documentary series will likely leave anyone frightened to swipe right as it lifts the lid on some shocking crime cases.
Featured in the show are the stories of an unfortunate few, who headed off on a date only to never return home.
None of them expected to come face-to-face with tragedy and terror after making a first romantic connection online.
Here’s what we know about Fatal First Dates ahead of the shocking series landing on Channel 5.
Fatal First Dates on Channel 5: What’s it about?
Fatal First Dates has already aired in the US, but the series is now coming to UK audiences for the first time.
Each episode is a standalone case, retelling the real life story of a date that ended in bloodshed. It will retrace the case from a fatal first swipe that ended in manipulation, obsession and betrayal.
The first episode of Fatal First Dates focuses on single mum Leslie Reeves. The fitness instructor, from Illinois in the US, was looking for love online when she stumbled upon Chris Smith.
Chris was a 48-year-old divorcee with two kids. He worked for a pool contractor.
Leslie, 45, had high hopes for this date and headed to Chris’ house for the evening as it was Thanksgiving. But the following day, she was missing.
Leslie’s best friend alerted the emergency services and they entered the property. The only person to come out alive was Chris, although he was barely conscious.
An officer then broke the news Leslie’s pal that she’d been shot dead in the head. Chris had also been shot and later died.
Investigators described it as “one of the most horrific” crime scene they had ever visited.
So who was to blame for the brutal act?
Loved ones and those who worked on the case will share their first-hand accounts in Fatal First Dates, explaining exactly what had transpired on that deadly night.
When does Fatal First Dates start? How many episodes?
Fatal First Dates will start on Channel 5 later this month. The first episode will air on Tuesday July 28, 2026. Given its gory nature, the show has been given a late start time of 11pm.
There are 10 episodes in the series, with one airing each week.
Don’t panic if you struggle to stay awake past 10, though, as Fatal First Dates will be available to watch on 5’s streaming platform, too. Phew!
