The Boyfriend (Japanese: ボーイフレンド, Hepburn: Bōifurendo) is a Japanese realitydating show on Netflix.[1][2][3] It is the nation's first same-sex dating program. It premiered on July 9, 2024.[4][5] In December 2024, Netflix announced that the show had been renewed for a second season, with a new cast of gay men and all of the commentators returning.[6]
Format
The show features a cast of 9 Japanese and East Asian men who identify as gay or bisexual living together in a house called "The Green Room". Each day, one cast member is selected by the show's unseen producers to run a coffee truck; that cast member may select one other participant (with an additional option of choosing two others later on the show) to run the truck with them that day. The coffee truck allows participants to deepen their relationship without interference from the rest of the cast, who remain at the Green Room and maintain the house, relax, or socialize. Periodically, the cast are allowed to indicate who they would like to take on a more conventional date; each participant gets only one vote, and only mutual matches get to go on the date. The show is not a competition and thus no participants are eliminated.[7][8]
Periodically, the show cuts to a panel of commentators chaired by Megumi, who discuss the cast's actions and relationships, and offer their own opinions on who should date whom. They also provide additional commentary and insight regarding homosexuality in Japan and LGBT rights in Japan.[7]
Production
Filming started taking place in October of 2023. The filming location was in the town of Tateyama, Chiba.[7]The "Green Room" house is actually the Stay Ocean Tateyama located at 1207-33 Menuma, Tateyama, Chiba 294-0221.[9][10][11]
The boys move into an oceanside cottage, sharing their first impressions. As sparks fly and a new face heats things up, an unforgettable summer begins.
2
2
"Getting to Know the Real You"
July 9, 2024 (2024-07-09)
TBF-102
The coffee truck opens for business, and the boys must choose their shift partners. Shun begins to feel uneasy over an unexpected discovery.
3
3
"A Kiss Would Make Things Clear"
July 9, 2024 (2024-07-09)
TBF-103
A new member stirs things up. As the sun sets, Shun reveals his true feelings. A lucky few may get to go on a date — only if their feelings are mutual.
Week 2
4
4
"One Step Closer"
July 16, 2024 (2024-07-16)
TBF-104
Usak reveals his anxieties. As food prices escalate, so does the chicken crisis. Kazuto's popularity provokes some of the boys to make bold moves.
5
5
"I Don't Need an Answer"
July 16, 2024 (2024-07-16)
TBF-105
Two members go on an overnight date and bond over dinner. Shun clarifies his feelings. After a heartwarming shift, Usak makes a big announcement.
6
6
"Welcome to a Stormy Picnic"
July 16, 2024 (2024-07-16)
TBF-106
Inspired by Usak's words, Gensei takes a step forward. A new face joins the group. The boys go on an eventful picnic with their new housemate.
Week 3
7
7
"There’s Nothing I Want Now"
July 23, 2024 (2024-07-23)
TBF-107
With a chance to get a wish granted, the boys compete to be the fastest go-kart racer. Dai has a difficult conversation. Ikuo goes on the offensive.
8
8
"Did You Wait Long? I’ve Been Waiting Forever"
July 23, 2024 (2024-07-23)
TBF-108
Over drinks, the group shares their different coming out experiences. With one last chance for a romantic date, the boys must make their choice count.
Week 4
9
9
"Accepting You No Matter What"
July 30, 2024 (2024-07-30)
TBF-109
Dai confides in a few members for advice. Ikuo's good intentions backfire. As things cool down, a surprise announcement leaves the boys in tears.
10
10
"I Don't Want This to End"
July 30, 2024 (2024-07-30)
TBF-110
A surprise event strengthens the boys' bonds. On the final day, they face confessions and shocks. What future will they choose for themselves?
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