Ethiopia’s First Reality Dating Show Pushes Boundaries and Breaks Cultural Norms
A new reality TV show has captivated and divided audiences across Ethiopia. Latey: Looking for Love, the country’s first major dating show, aired on YouTube and followed ten women competing for the affection of one man—a premise new to the traditionally conservative East African nation.
The show’s format mirrors global hits like The Bachelor, but in a setting where public courtship is rarely discussed, let alone broadcast. Its premiere and finale collectively drew hundreds of thousands of views, igniting passionate debates online and offline.
At the center of the show was Messiah Hailemeskel, a 38-year-old Ethiopian-American insurance agent from Dallas, and Bethel Getahun, the 25-year-old content creator who won his heart. Despite her victory, Bethel told the BBC’s Focus on Africa that the romance is now long-distance and uncertain.
Mixed Reactions to a Cultural Shift
Critics argue the show adopts a Western concept that objectifies women. Prominent Ethiopian vlogger Semere Kassaye voiced concern, saying the show commodifies women and clashes with local traditions of discreet, family-centered courtship.
But Bethel disagrees, explaining that Latey is more than a love competition. “It showcased women’s strength, resilience, and individuality,” she said. Contestants included professionals like hotel managers, accountants, and models, many of whom shared deeply personal stories about trauma, sacrifice, and ambition.
One contestant, Vivian, revealed she fled Eritrea and hasn’t seen her mother in five years. Another, Rahel, dropped out of school to support her family. These stories added emotional depth to a show often dismissed as superficial.
Producers Defend Their Vision
Metasebia Yoseph, the show’s producer and co-founder of D!nkTV, says Latey intentionally avoided hyper-sexualized tropes common in Western dating shows. Instead, it focused on the “get-to-know-you” phase of relationships.
“We wanted to ask: what does Ethiopian culture really mean today?” she said. “Are we static, or are we evolving?”
With fans praising its boldness and representation of diverse female voices, D!nkTV has confirmed plans for a second season—this time with a woman choosing from 10 male suitors.
A New Chapter for Ethiopian Media?
Though the romantic journey between Bethel and Messiah may be uncertain, Bethel says she’s proud to have been part of something historic. “It’s a new way of showcasing Ethiopian women and how they express themselves,” she said.
Whether seen as controversial or groundbreaking, Latey has ignited a national conversation on gender, identity, and modern love—and may just signal a new era for Ethiopian entertainment.
