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In the new lesbian dating show "Princess Charming", Irina hose is looking for her great love
Photo: Rene Lohse / TVNOW / picture alliance / dpa
SPIEGEL:
You are the first “Princess Charming” in the world. The program will start next Tuesday on RTL's TVNow Internet offshoot.
Previously there was "Prince Charming", but never a lesbian dating show.
Why is that?
Hose:
I suspect that nobody has dared to do it yet.
Perhaps out of fear that women are not entertaining enough or that there aren't enough viewers out to see a lesbian dating show.
SPIEGEL:
RTL got in trouble because there was originally supposed to be a »Princess Charming« with an »attractive bi-lady«, so men and women would have been on the show.
What do you think was the problem?
Hose:
Perhaps the station thought that a bisexual variant could appeal to even more people, i.e. men and women.
Another factor is: Compared to lesbian women, gay men are often more open, prefer to present themselves and celebrate their sexuality more.
That offers a greater entertainment value.
SPIEGEL:
After criticism from viewers, RTL changed the concept.
Do you understand those who started the shit storm?
Hose:
I can understand the displeasure.
I would not have applied for a bisexual variant.
Not because I hate men - this prejudice clings to many lesbian women, but it usually cannot be confirmed.
For me it was because I didn't want to court a woman with men.
I first applied as a candidate.
For me, a bisexual variant would not have been right from the point of view of the point in time, since, in the interests of justice, a purely male dating show should be followed by a purely female variant.
SPIEGEL:
What gave you the idea of taking part in the dating format?
Hose:
I'm a big fan of "Prince Charming".
It was so nice to see the natural way love between men was portrayed there.
In addition, with my participation I would like to give the lesbian community a stage that was previously barely visible.
At the same time, I would like to encourage others to stand up for their homosexuality.
SPIEGEL:
How did those around you react?
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Hose:
Some have expressed themselves critically.
Not because of the format, but because of the media attention that such a show generates.
Everyone should think twice about this step.
However, my friends and family support my participation and are one hundred percent behind me and my sexuality.
SPIEGEL:
How would you describe the atmosphere at “Princess Charming” compared to other dating formats?
Hose:
Despite the competitive situation, everyone treated one another very respectfully and supported one another.
There was no drama or squabbling.
A really great sense of community has developed between us, which cannot be taken for granted.
SPIEGEL:
Are you in a relationship with someone from the show now?
Hose:
I'm very happy right now.
(laughs)
SPIEGEL:
Gay and lesbian couples have been allowed to marry in Germany since June 2017.
Where do you see a legal need to catch up in terms of LGBTIQ +?
Hose:
It is still difficult for lesbian couples to raise a family.
When a woman has the child, her partner is not automatically entered as a "co-mother".
A lengthy adoption process follows.
Even for trans people, a lot still needs to change in terms of equality.