Tonight, TLC is airing a new two part special called ‘Geek Love.’ The special focuses on Ryan Glitch, founder of Sci-Fi Speed Dating, as he sets up speed dating events at several comic-cons and includes interviews with some of the “geeks” that participate in them.
In an interview with EW, Glitch stated that the idea of Sci-Fi Speed Dating began after a disastrous speed dating experience he had at another convention. “It was not fun,” he said, “and they were really long dates. Eight minutes is a long time to cold-talk to somebody!” He figured he could do it better and held his first Sci-Fi Speed Dating event at a convention called Celebration 5. From there, it has escalated to what it is now.
Currently, the speed dating gig is not Glitch’s main job and seems more of a hobby. He explains, “We honestly don’t care if we make a dime. If we keep getting to go to conventions for free and help people, we’re game on. We’re not here to exploit this. We’re just here to do a good job, and have fun.”
Glitch hopes that tonight’s special will gather enough interest to make the show a series. To those that are skeptical about him exploiting “geeks”, he responds by saying:
“Everybody is looking for that special someone. And here are people who happen to be extreme fans. Step into our world for a little bit… The thing these people all have in common is that they’re really passionate about the thing they’re into. Even if they don’t like the same stuff, they’ve got a huge passion they can build from. It’s what makes my speed dating work a little better than the average.”
Below are a few clips from tonight’s episode. ‘Geek Love’ airs tonight on TLC with part one at 9 pm ET/PT and part two following at 9:30 ET/PT. And make sure you return here tomorrow as we’ll have a review of the special from our very own “geek” Jessica. (If you’re wondering, here’s what she thinks of the concept of a nerd reality dating show.)
