"Love Is Blind" criticized for racial diversity issues

Season 8 of "Love Is Blind" has faced increased criticism for its lack of diversity. Contestant Virginia Miller highlighted this issue by noting that the Black men in her season admitted they typically date white women. Virginia, who was part of the show's only non-white couple, expressed her disappointment on the "What's the Reality" podcast. She felt her season did not reflect the diversity of Minnesota, where it was filmed. Virginia pointed out that the state has significant Somali and Hmong populations. In response to previous criticisms, show creator Chris Coelen claimed the lack of diversity was unintentional. He explained that the casting process aims for a diverse group but that romantic connections dictate who gets engaged. This situation comes after comments from earlier contestant Lauren Speed-Hamilton, who said Black women had been cut from the final show despite appearing in trailers. The ongoing discussions show the challenges the reality show faces regarding representation.