Channel 4 has confirmed the return of a boundary-pushing dating show that previously shocked viewers with its couple-swapping and threesome scenes – and is looking for “adventurous couples” to apply.
Open House: The Great Sex Experiment, which originally aired in April 2022, returns to grace screens with a new open relationship expert, a luxurious new location and exciting new format twists.
The show has already had two successful seasons, each consisting of six amazing episodes.
It’s a Firecracker production for Channel 4 and is framed as a “social experiment” where ordinary British couples can “open up” their relationship by adding another partner, or more, into the bedroom.
The couples stay two nights at a luxury mansion where they meet a sex therapist, formerly Dr. Lori Beth Bisbey, who urges them to talk about their sexual desires.
Channel 4 has confirmed the return of its boundary-pushing dating show which previously wowed viewers with its partner-swapping and threesome scenes – and is on the hunt for “adventurous couples” to apply.
Open House: The Great Sex Experiment, which originally aired in April 2022, is back on screens with a new open relationship expert, a luxurious new location and exciting new format twists.
When night falls, they meet a group of “sexually liberated” housemates, who are encouraged to approach them and propose the possibility of joining them for sex.
The show has been well received in the past, but its graphic subject matter (in particular the broadcast of a 15-person orgy for the first time on UK television) raised suspicions.
The first season surprisingly remains Channel 4’s biggest 10pm unscripted series launch since 2017, and the second season surged with a 13% share of young audiences (16-34s) in the same timeslot, so it’s no surprise bosses have renewed it for another season.
As producers prepare to launch season three, they’re putting out a call for “adventurous couples” who want to explore the idea of non-monogamy.
Applications are now open on the Channel 4 website and the casting notice reads:
‘If you’re a curious couple who would love the opportunity to explore non-monogamy for the first time, please get in touch.
‘If you are a single, sexually liberated person or are already in an open relationship, you can also take part in the programme as one of the retreat’s residents. Potential candidates who wish to apply are encouraged to do so via the Channel 4 website.’
Commissioning editor Tim Hancock said: ‘Open House is the kind of programme that could only be broadcast on Channel 4, as it reflects the growing trend towards non-monogamy in an authentic, ambitious and sometimes surprisingly frank way.
It’s a Firecracker production for Channel 4 and is framed as a “social experiment” where ordinary British couples can “open up” their relationship by adding another partner, or more, into the bedroom.
The couples stay two nights at a luxury mansion where they meet a sex therapist, formerly Dr. Lori Beth Bisbey, who urges them to talk about their sexual desires.
‘Its continued success is down to an alchemy of excellent casting and high-quality storytelling, and I can’t wait to find out who’s coming to the house this time around.’
Firecracker creative director Jes Wilkins, who devised the series, said: ‘Open House is the perfect embodiment of the mischievous purpose that has always characterised Firecracker’s best work for Channel 4.
“For such a bold format to be given the green light for a third season in the current commissioning environment is a huge achievement for everyone involved, both at Firecracker and Channel 4.”
And it seems the broadcaster is looking to establish itself in the dating world, as it comes hot on the heels of the announcement that dating show Love Triangle has been greenlit for a second season.
The channel is on the hunt for the “sexiest bachelors ever” as another of its racy shows makes a return.
In Love Triangle, which was reportedly inspired by David Haye’s threesome, singles message two suitors before choosing one to go on a double date with.
The show, which aired in April and has been described as a cross between Love Island and Married At First Sight, is said to have been so successful for Channel 4 that they believe a second series will be even bigger.
A television source said The sun:’Throuples’ is a buzzword at the moment, so the first season of Love Triangle captured the imagination of viewers and produced some explosive television and some truly risqué moments.
“Executives are now looking for actors again and hope that Channel 4 will pick up the series and air it later this year. Either way, they are sure that other networks will also be interested.”