Jenni Falconer, presenter Cilla Black and Donda Michaelas on Blind Date in 1994 [ITV]<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
A chip shop owner says he is “proud” to have been part of TV history when he was matched with a future TV presenter on Blind Date.<\/p>\n
Donda Michaelas, from Bearsted, Kent, was 19 when he appeared on the popular ITV dating programme, which is 40 years old this weekend.<\/p>\n
Romance did not blossom with Jenni Falconer, then an 18-year-old student, on their filmed date in Brittany, France, but the couple remain in contact more than 30 years later.<\/p>\n
Mr Michaelas, who is now married with four children, said he had “no regrets” and “loved taking part in a bit of TV history”.<\/p>\n
The business owner, who also runs a chain of barber shops, said friends put him up to appear on the popular show.<\/p>\n
After being chosen he said: “It was very flattering. I thought it could be quite good fun.<\/p>\n
“I was very nervous, but also excited.”<\/p>\n
He was selected for a date ahead of two others by Falconer, who went on to present on GMTV, the National Lottery draws and This Morning.<\/p>\n
He said: “I gave funny answers and she picked me.<\/p>\n
“It was an amazing buzz.”<\/p>\n