Kellie Maloney’s First Dates ‘Scrapped’ After Match Was ‘Uncomfortable’

Earlier this week, Channel 4 announced that First Dates would be returning, with Gogglebox’s Scarlett Moffatt, presenter Esther Rantzen, paralympian Will Bayley and TOWIE’s Jess Wright amongst those set to take part in the celebrity specials.

However, it’s now been revealed that Kellie Maloney, who bravely came out as transgender in 2014, has sadly had her appearance axed as the man she was paired with felt ‘uncomfortable’ that she is trans.

Copyright [Ken McKay/ITV/REX/Shutterstock]

Her appearance was set to be the first time Kellie would openly discuss her wish to find love with a man, according to The Sun Online.

Speaking about the boxing promoter’s appearance being cut, a source said: “The guy was really surprised that he had been paired with Kellie. He had no idea when he signed up that he would be matched with someone transgender and so well known.

“Kellie was really looking forward to finding love on the show with a man – as she finally feels ready to discuss her feelings.

“She’s really disappointed about what has happened and she’s deeply upset that he was so shocked about her being transgender.”

Copyright [Dan Wooller/REX/Shutterstock]

A spokesman for the show said: “Kellie’s date told the production team he was open to being paired with a transgender person, however after the date ended he felt uncomfortable about appearing on the celebrity episode.

“Duty of care to all contributors is of paramount importance to the First Dates team and after due consideration of the concerns he had raised, the decision was made not to include this date.“