Modern dating in Britain has become a source of growing frustration for many singles navigating an increasingly digital world. From endless swiping and dating fatigue to changing expectations around relationships, many argue that romance today feels more complicated than ever.

Some commentators believe the roots of today’s dating culture stretch back decades, pointing to the influence of entertainment-focused matchmaking shows that transformed romance into public spectacle. Programmes associated with television icon Cilla Black helped turn dating into shared entertainment, encouraging audiences to see relationships through the lens of excitement, compatibility tests, and instant chemistry.

Supporters argue these shows simply reflected changing social attitudes and made meeting people more accessible and fun. Critics, however, say they helped create unrealistic expectations around finding the “perfect match,” something that continues to shape modern dating culture.

The rise of dating apps has further accelerated these changes. Singles today have more choices than ever before, but experts suggest too many options can sometimes lead to decision fatigue, shorter attention spans, and more transactional approaches to relationships.

Social media has also transformed expectations, with curated lifestyles and relationship content influencing how people view romance, commitment, and compatibility.