Channel 4 is reportedly planning a new X-rated dating show called 'Sex First'.
Anna Richardson hosts Naked Attraction
The broadcaster behind the likes of 'Naked Attraction' - which is hosted by Anna Richardson - and sister channel E4's 'Married At First Sight UK' is looking to launch a fresh format which sees couples encouraged to have sex on a virtual first date using an avatar and Bluetooth toys.
A source told The Sun newspaper's TVBiz column: "Channel 4 has aired some bizarre dating shows, but this will be the most outrageous.
"They made a pilot towards the end of last year and the next phase is screen-testing it to audiences.
"If it's green lit, it is bound to cause controversy but the series could also attract some big ratings."
It's said the programme - which has the working title 'Sex First' for the time being - would explore the theory that sexual chemistry is vital for perfect matches.
The show would see single people introduced online behind avatars, before moving on to using Bluetooth-synced sex toys together.
If they enjoy their first encounter, they would then meet in person to see if the bond is as strong in real life, and then decide whether or not to take their relationship further.
This comes despite a number of rating shows being scrapped in recent months, including C4 itself ditching Joel Dommett's 'The Love Trap', while ITV dumped plans for 'Ready To Mingle', 'Romeo And Duet' and 'The Singles Table'.
Meanwhile, 'Naked Attraction' host Anna previously admitted she would love to take the show on the road for a live theatre tour with audience members stripping off on stage.
She said: "I'm desperate to do it as a live theatre show. That would be amazing. A 'Naked Attraction Live' is my next ambition.
“Say you were in Bournemouth, you’d have different contestants each night or encourage people from the audience to be in the pods. Wouldn’t it be ace?”
However, an US version isn't on the cards as she explained producers are facing a "brick wall when it comes to showing penises on US television".
She added: "It would go down like a cup of sick in the Bible belt.”
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