“Pop The Balloon Dating Series Debuts on Netflix with Host Arlette Amuli”

“Pop the Balloon or Find Love” is a popular dating show that originated on YouTube, where contestants determine their compatibility by either keeping their balloons intact to show interest or popping them to indicate disinterest. The creative minds behind this hit concept are Bolia Matundu (BM), a self-employed multimedia producer and musician, and his wife Arlette Amuli, a beauty and lifestyle creator.

BM shared with Essence GU that the idea for the show came about during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 when various versions of the concept were surfacing on YouTube. He wanted to create a more mature version of the show, featuring working-class individuals with good jobs. Their YouTube series has garnered over 100 million views across 48 episodes, and they also host the “Catch Up” podcast to keep viewers updated on the show’s successful matches.

Exciting news came in March 2025 when it was announced that “Pop the Balloon or Find Love” would be making its way to Netflix under the title “Pop the Balloon LIVE,” produced by Sharp Entertainment. BM and Amuli will continue to serve as executive producers alongside industry veterans Matt Sharp, Dan Adler, and Bonnie Biggs. The revamped show promises higher stakes, fresh twists, and celebrity surprises, with actress Yvonne Orji set to take on the hosting duties.

In a joint statement, BM and Amuli expressed their excitement about the show’s evolution, emphasizing the focus on love and fun throughout the series. Yvonne Orji, known for her role on “Insecure,” is thrilled to bring her charm and humor to the show as the host, promising an engaging and entertaining experience for both the daters and Netflix viewers.

The move to Netflix marks a significant milestone for “Pop the Balloon,” showcasing the creators’ dedication to fostering connections and entertainment on a larger platform. With a strong team behind the scenes and a talented host at the forefront, the show is poised for even greater success as it enters this new chapter.