YouTuber Mark Ferris Opens Up About First Gay Kiss and Vulnerability Ahead of "First Dates" TV Debut

Mark Ferris, known to hundreds of thousands for his candid and creative YouTube presence, is stepping into a new spotlight. Tonight, the 34-year-old content creator makes his debut on Channel 4’s "First Dates," sharing not just a meal but a powerful story of vulnerability and growth.

Ferris, whose social media career flourished alongside internet personalities like Zoella and Alfie Deyes, has built a loyal following by being genuine about his experiences with heartbreak, friendship, and self-discovery. For many fans, tonight’s televised date with Chris—a 42-year-old cruise brand manager—marks not just a romantic milestone, but a celebration of Ferris’s journey toward embracing his identity.

In a candid conversation with Attitude, Ferris recounts his first gay kiss, which took place during his university years in the early 2000s. "If you see me on the show, I was shitting bricks 24/7, because I just don’t know how to react when someone says they’re into me. So we went back, had a little kiss… I always knew, it was the first time I let it happen," Ferris shares, reflecting on the significance of that moment.

Growing up in the 1990s and coming of age in an environment less accepting than today’s, Ferris admits he lacked the courage to be open about his sexuality. "It was just a different time back then for me personally, where I just didn’t feel courageous and confident enough," he says.

His story echoes the experiences of many LGBTQ+ individuals who struggled with self-acceptance in less inclusive eras. The vulnerability Ferris displays—both on YouTube and now on national television—demonstrates the importance of normalizing queer experiences for viewers of all backgrounds.

Ferris’s openness is not without difficulty. In a previous video, he describes a humiliating encounter in which acquaintances speculated about his sexuality, making him feel exposed before he was ready to come out publicly. "I was humiliated in front of all my friends who I hadn't personally came out to. It was a very awkward situation... It made me feel like I was different," Ferris revealed.

Despite these challenges, Ferris has intentionally chosen to share his story on his own terms. He emphasizes the need to normalize LGBTQ+ identities, saying, "I want to date guys—who cares? Date who you want, be who you want to be". This message resonates not only with fans but also with broader efforts to build inclusive media spaces.

Support from friends like Zoella has been instrumental. Upon learning of his appearance on "First Dates," she told Ferris, "You’re going on a date on national TV—do you know how far you’ve come?". Such encouragement has helped Ferris gain the confidence to share his journey with a wider audience.

Ferris’s "First Dates" debut is significant not just for him personally, but for LGBTQ+ visibility in mainstream entertainment. By sharing his authentic self on national television, Ferris challenges stereotypes and helps normalize queer relationships for viewers who may not have seen such stories represented before.

Other public figures, such as actor Clayton Farris, have also spoken about the importance of representation. "To be one of the only queer characters in such a big movie, like, ‘Oh, this kind of has some weight to it!’" Farris said recently, highlighting the impact of visibility in diverse genres.

The presence of openly LGBTQ+ personalities in popular media helps counteract outdated prejudices and provides role models for young viewers. As Ferris’s story demonstrates, coming out and sharing authentic experiences can foster empathy, understanding, and acceptance.

As Ferris takes this next step in his public life, he remains committed to fostering a culture of openness and pride. "It’s so important to talk about it—who are people who are struggling about it," he says, acknowledging the ongoing need for conversations around identity.

With his appearance on "First Dates," Ferris continues to inspire others to embrace their true selves, reminding viewers that vulnerability can be a source of strength. Tonight’s episode offers not only the excitement of new romance but also the promise of greater acceptance and understanding for LGBTQ+ individuals across the UK and beyond.

Channel 4’s "First Dates" airs on Fridays at 10PM; episodes are available on the Channel 4 website.