Netflix’s acclaimed series Love on the Spectrum made its highly anticipated return for a third season on April 2, 2025. This season follows the show’s previous success, where it garnered three Emmy Awards in 2022 and two more in 2024. In a recent interview with Reality Blurred, co-creator Cian O’Clery shared insights into the participant matching process that defines the show.
“You’re trying to work out who might be a good match for someone. And we’re not mismatching people on purpose; we’re never doing something like that; this isn’t that kind of show… we’re making a show that is meant to be positive. And we’re not trying to find villains and manufacture conflict or drama where they may not be previously,” he said.
In this new season, relationship expert Jennifer Cook continues to lend her expertise, drawing from her own experiences as a person on the spectrum.
Understanding the Participant Matching System in Love on the Spectrum
During the same interview, Cian O’Clery and fellow co-creator Karina Holden explained the meticulous casting procedure used in Love on the Spectrum. The process begins with written applications from prospective participants, who reach out through official channels. A careful evaluation follows, taking into account various factors such as the participants’ comfort levels with being filmed and their experiences in social situations.
The creators emphasize the importance of getting to know potential cast members thoroughly before making final selections. They also deliberate on individual preferences regarding dating, exploring whether participants prefer to date someone who is neurotypical or another individual on the spectrum.
“We work with people based on their preferences in terms of who they want to date. Do you want to date someone who’s neurotypical? Would you prefer to date someone on the spectrum?” he said.
Furthermore, O’Clery noted:
“A lot of people want to date someone else on the spectrum, which I think… as it becomes more understood and people meet more and more people within the community, a lot of people actually feel more comfortable dating someone else. But again, everyone’s different and everyone has completely different preferences.”
Proximity also plays a significant role in the matching process, as the production team works across various locations in the U.S. O’Clery highlighted the advantages of maintaining a smaller crew size, diverging from the larger production teams typically employed in the industry. This strategy aims to ensure authentic interactions among participants.
“In terms of the casting process, we keep that the same; we do it as a producing team. We don’t hire a casting team to come in and do that separately. We do that all ourselves,” Cian shared.
This hands-on approach preserves the authenticity of the show while minimizing any overwhelming presence that a larger crew might create. To support participants, production covers all associated expenses for dates, including activities and transportation. The filming style is intentionally subtle, with camera operators discreetly positioned to help participants feel at ease.
Highlights of Love on the Spectrum Season 3
Season 3 of Love on the Spectrum introduces exciting changes while keeping the essence that fans love. New cast member Pari enhances the series with LGBTQ representation, while Madison makes her entrance after initial connections formed during the previous season’s production. Jennifer Cook continues to guide participants through their emotional journeys, further enriching the show’s dynamic.
The production team remains committed to an intimate setting with only five crew members, fostering a comfortable atmosphere for date and relationship development. According to producer Karina Holden, this season showcases multiple successful connections among participants, building momentum through authentic relationship growth.
Love on the Spectrum Season 3 is available for streaming on Netflix.