Find out if Melody and Jeremy are a match during this week’s Blind Date
MELODY, 49
Divorced. Single for four years, no children.
Dating history
In my early forties, I had been married for four years. Before that, my longest relationship was again four years. When I was younger, I was interested in a conventional life path of marriage and children, but nowadays I’m relaxed about finding someone.
Pre-date nerves?
No, I wanted to put my date at ease. Since he’s an accountant, I was worried he might be a nerd, especially since he mentioned on his application that he was born on May 4 (known as Star Wars Day) and was therefore a Jedi.
Melody, 49, has been single for four years. She is divorced, has no children and works as an actress and artist
First impression?
Jeremy is a warm, friendly, handsome man. Physically he is tall and has an open and engaging face. We greeted each other with a hug and a kiss, which we both wanted. He told me it was nice to meet me and then offered me the seat against the wall, which meant I got the comfortable couch.
Easy to talk to?
Yeah, and we joked that Jeremy talks a lot more than I do. I enjoyed listening; he is an interesting man.
His man bag looked like my handbag – and had a nail file…
I liked that he has solid friendship groups. He has been going skiing with a group of boys for twenty years. We also talked about his children and ex, but mostly focused on our passions.
Jeremy loves his sport; he likes squash. I admitted that I wasn’t sure I would be sporty enough for him, even though I have completed many tetrathlons, which involve shooting, swimming, riding and running. Jeremy admitted he should have looked it up!
Embarrassing moments?
Jeremy had a man bag. It was a similar design to my leather Italian handbag. There’s something quite feminine about it. There was even a nail file in it, which I thought was quite funny.
Did sparks fly?
I think there was a little bit of chemistry. I found Jeremy attractive. We both flirted a bit – there was a lot of eye contact, but no physical gestures or holding hands.
He wanted to take a selfie and sat next to me on the couch.
Melody is looking for a nice, funny man who feels good about himself. Arrogance is a turn off for her
Will you see him again?
Well I hope so. Jeremy is great company, although he did say that he has a few blind dates planned. My surprised expression made him step back a little.
What do you think he thought of you?
Don’t know. At one point he said that I have difficulty reading. I’m open and honest, so I don’t know what he meant.
Would your friends like it?
Certainly. Jeremy has a good laugh. He’s someone you’d like to have at a party.
JEREMIE, 55
Divorced, single for two years, with two teenage sons.
Dating history
I had two serious girlfriends in my 20s, and then I was married for 22 years. I’m social, but I’m really not ‘going out’. A platonic friend took me on as a project and nominated me for this opportunity. Since 2024 is my year of saying yes, I agreed.
Pre-date nerves?
A little. But that is only natural, because it is the fear of the unknown. However, I was also looking forward to it and took a day off to enjoy the whole process.
Jeremy, 55, has been single for two years. He is divorced with two teenage sons and is a chartered accountant
First impression?
I have a history of dating petite blondes and Melody ticked all the boxes. She is slim, neat, with short blond hair, and she is very beautiful and sweet. We greeted each other with a kiss on the cheek. To get the conversation started, I started with, “How did you get here?”
Easy to talk to?
Yes, although Melody is a fan of muscular men, while I am a 10th runner. She made quite a few references to my man bag, but I’m used to this reaction; it’s always a topic of conversation. I actually have five! In my defense, they are necessary for keys, phones (I have two), and my sunglasses.
…I actually own five man-bags. Women always ask about it
It was fascinating to hear about Melody’s professional world; she has worked with actors such as Aiden Turner and Jason Statham. I joked that I model myself after Statham, with his lack of hair and stubble.
Embarrassing moments?
No, although the waiter had to come back four times to take our order because we were talking so much.
Did sparks fly?
Not for me. I had a nice time with a nice person. But romantically, it’s a no. Normally I can tell right away if there is a romantic spark in someone, and with Melody I just didn’t feel it. Still, we spent almost three hours together.
Jeremy is looking for a warm, fun, naturally well-presented woman who takes care of herself
Will you see her again?
Um – probably not. No. That’s pretty cruel, isn’t it? But it’s an honest answer. I’m assuming the real deal and I didn’t get that romantic feeling during our date.
What do you think she thought of you?
I hope the same as I do: that there is no romantic future for us, but that I was good company and easy to talk to. I’m glad I did it and it was great meeting someone new.
Would your friends like her?
Yes – Melody is outgoing, social and good company.
MELODY’S VERDICT: 8.5/10
LIKED IT? There was a lot of laughter.
REGRET? No.
COFFEE OR taxi? Coffee.
JEREMY’S VERDICT: 8/10
LIKED IT? Relaxed company.
REGRET? No regrets at all.
COFFEE OR taxi? Cab.