Same-Sex Japanese Dating Reality Show ‘The Boyfriend’ Renewed by Netflix as Court Rules Gay Marriage Ban Unconstitutional

Netflix has greenlit a second season of its groundbreaking Japanese same-sex dating reality series “The Boyfriend,” following the show’s impressive performance both domestically and internationally.

The timing of Netflix’s renewal announcement couldn’t have been more appropriate. The Associated Press reported on Friday that a high court in Fukuoka, Japan ruled the country’s ban on same-sex marriage unconstitutional, marking the eighth such ruling out of nine cases since 2019. The decision, which found that the ban violates citizens’ constitutional right to pursue happiness, adds pressure on Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s minority government to act on marriage equality. Japan currently stands as the only G7 nation that doesn’t legally recognize same-sex marriages or provide legally binding protections for LGBTQ+ couples.

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The first season of “The Boyfriend,” which debuted July 9, maintained a strong presence in Netflix’s Weekly Top 10 Series chart in Japan, holding its position for six consecutive weeks. The show’s success translated into significant career momentum for its nine participants, whose social media followings have experienced a remarkable surge, expanding by an average of 120 times since the series premiered. The cast members have leveraged their newfound popularity into television appearances, magazine cover features, and recognition as leading cultural figures by digital media outlets.

Season 2 will introduce viewers to a fresh ensemble of participants, with returning hosts Magumi, Chiaki Horan, Thelma Aoyama, drag queen Durian Lollobrigida, and Yoshimi Tokui reprising their roles as guides through the contestants’ journeys.

Netflix producer Dai Ota acknowledges the show’s unique position as Japan’s first same-sex romance reality series. “Thanks to the love from our viewers, it is exciting to return for a new season. Being the first same-sex romance reality show in Japan, we paid careful attention to ensure that the story is an authentic portrayal of these relationships. In Season 1, we showed not just romance, but their friendship and meaningful connections with one another, which I believe touched the hearts of fans around the world,” Ota says.

Looking ahead to the upcoming season, Ota promises continued authenticity with new elements: “In Season 2, we will continue to showcase their compassion and stories of growth, with more unique perspectives and backstories. Please look forward to a new season with new participants, a new Green Room, and new storytelling.”