Let’s face it, TV dating shows don’t have the best track record. Take the perennially successful Married At First Sight — it’s a ratings juggernaut, sure.
But in recent years the long-running series has been shrouded in controversy.
In the UK, where the show has its own version, there is a rape scandal currently playing out. The show’s been yanked off the air, and an investigation is under way.
Then there’s Love Island and The Bachelor, both popular dating franchises, both continually in the news for all the wrong reasons.
But there is one exception: Farmer Wants A Wife.
Quietly, over 16 seasons and 19 years, the long-running series, which connects farmers with city-dwelling partners looking for a change of scene and a shot at rural romance, has carved out a place as one of the country’s most beloved series.
“We are incredibly proud of the show’s track record,” says the show’s long-running host, Queensland-based Natalie Gruzlewski.
“To this day, there have been 11 marriages, 13 long-term relationships and 28 beautiful farmer babies in Australia.
“The statistics worldwide are even more impressive.
“It’s quite humbling to think a TV show can play a small part in something as life-changing as that.
“The farmers are there for the right reasons, and the women genuinely want a lifelong partner, not just a passing romance.”
Part of Farmer Wants A Wife’s wide appeal undoubtedly comes down to Gruzlewski, whose warmth and genuine love for the series she’s been a part of for so long shows in every episode.
Over the years, she’s had a front-row seat to the start of some truly beautiful relationships, “and I’ve been lucky enough to stay in touch with quite a few couples”, she explains.
“And I still catch glimpses of their lives through social media.
“I love seeing those updates and gorgeous farmer babies!”
Gruzlewski says this year’s crop of rural Romeos, who include Farmer Alex, 28, from Kin Kin in Queensland, Farmer Dylan, 24, from Cherry Gardens, South Australia, Farmer Jarrad, 41, from Taylorville, South Australia, Farmer Jason, 37, from Coolabunia, Queensland, and Farmer Zac, 24, from Forest Range, South Australia, are some of the best yet.
“This year’s farmers are emotionally open and self-aware,” she says.
“They know exactly what they’re looking for, and they’re not afraid to bare it all.”
The women, who include Perth contestant Beth, are also open to what might unfold, and, as Gruzlewski explains, they are “genuinely committed to the process, and truly ready to share their lives”.
“Viewers will see real vulnerability, courage and a lot of heart,” she adds.
“We received a record number of applications for the farmers this year — more women applied than ever before — so the bar was incredibly high from the start.”
While watching people meet and fall in love is a definite drawcard, another reason audiences adore the show is for its wonderful showcasing of the Aussie countryside, in all its diverse glory.
Gruzlewski admits over the years, it has left her dreaming of her own rural escape.
“Spending time in those parts of Australia really makes you appreciate the lifestyle,” she admits.
“I don’t know if I could truly commit to a tree change just yet, but I definitely understand the appeal — it’s very tempting.”
This year marks 25 years on Aussie TV for Gruzlewski, who began her career in the early noughties on Surf TV, The NRL Footy Show, and Getaway.
While much has changed in her life, Farmer has been consistent for more than half that time.
“When I first started out, I never imagined I’d still be doing this 25 years later,” Gruzlewski says of her TV career.
“TV has given me so many amazing experiences, but at the heart of it, I just love being part of the process.”
And the highlight? Farmer is right up there.
“Honestly, being part of Farmer Wants A Wife and seeing real love stories unfold is pretty special,” Gruzlewski says.
Farmer Wants A Wife premieres on Monday June 8 at 7pm on Seven.
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