FIRST Dates returned tonight but viewers demanded to know why two of the show’s favourite stars are no longer on it.
The series has undergone a huge overhaul, and Sam Conrad and Laura Trott were noticeably absent – with no sign of them coming back.
But that wasn’t the only change that left viewers flummoxed.
The series has moved from the posh Paternoster Chop House at St Paul’s in London.
It is now being filmed in The Refinery, a chic cocktail bar and restaurant, based in Manchester City Centre.
The show also saw the introduction of some new faces, with the more familiar ones nowhere to be seen.
Waiters Sam and Laura have been a staple of First Dates for many years.
However, both will not be returning to the show for the latest series.
Laura announced the news to fans online and explained that the programme’s move from London to Manchester is behind the decision.
Taking to Instagram, Laura said: “As you can see, I do not appear in this series of First Dates.
“They have moved up north to a new restaurant and wanted to freshen up the team for this series with some new local faces among the old faces, so I will not be featuring in this new series of First Dates unfortunately.”
Admitting she is slightly relieved, Laura went on: “To be honest, I don’t actually know how I would have fit filming in this year with working during the pandemic.
“I’ve needed every day off to chill out so it’s actually been a welcomed break. I’ve missed the whole team though, that’s for sure.”
Meanwhile, it is not known why Sam isn’t on the show anymore.
The popular waiter has kept quiet as to why he isn’t appearing on series 16.
The cheeky Londoner has thrilled fans since first appearing on the show in 2017.
His “will they or won’t they?” relationship with waitress CiCi kept fans on the edge of their seats.
Sam also featured on spin-off show First Dates Hotel.
But fans were not happy they weren’t on the show.
This one tweeted: “Ahhhh the restaurant is different, the waiters are different, the INTRO is different! Can’t cope #firstdates.”
While another viewer said: “Is it even truly #FirstDates if either Cici or Laura are missing?”
This fan was very disgruntled: “Can I just ask where Sam is on First Dates? Not the same!”
Despite Laura and Sam not being part of the 2021 line-up, old favourites like Fred, CiCi, Grant and Merlin are still on the show.
Series 16 welcomes three new members of staff – Daniella, David and Fiona.
- Catch the next episode of First Dates next Tuesday at 10pm on Channel 4.
