Dating in the Northwest Territories can be challenging, as Tanya Gruben can attest. Living in Inuvik with roots in Tuktoyaktuk and Fort McPherson, she finds it difficult to date due to being related to many in her community. When the opportunity to join the Canadian version of the popular dating show Love is Blind arose, Gruben saw it as a chance to expand her dating options.
Love is Blind, a hit show by Netflix since 2020, features a unique concept where individuals are matched in “pods” without seeing each other until a potential marriage proposal. Despite not having watched the show in its entirety, Gruben is willing to explore unconventional avenues to find a suitable partner, given the limited dating prospects in Inuvik.
Aged 53, Gruben highlights the scarcity of dating opportunities for individuals her age in her community, where most singles are younger or transient. She acknowledges the potential for a televised marriage on the show but sees it as a preferable alternative to being engaged to a relative. Optimistic about forming connections with fellow contestants, Gruben seeks someone who shares her values, respects her Aboriginal heritage, enjoys adventures, and is open to travel.
While expressing her openness to various qualities in a partner, Gruben humorously mentioned in her application that “teeth are optional.” The upcoming Canadian edition of Love is Blind, scheduled for a 2027 premiere, has generated significant interest, with numerous hopefuls vying for a chance to participate. Gruben remains hopeful that her unique background from the Arctic region will appeal to the show’s producers, increasing her chances of being selected.