Man Living With Autism Uses Prompt Cards On First Date On 'The Undateables'

A man living with autism handled the tough world of love like a pro on The Undateables by preparing conversation cards for his dates.

Japan enthusiast Francesco had never been on a date before, but he wasn't going to let that get in his way of finding love.

And it seems like he'd done his research to ensure that his date went as smoothly as possible with minimal awkwardness.

"I've heard that on first dates, I think it's pretty common that you can go into awkward silences," Francesco told the cameras after his mum questioned what he was doing. "It's just awkward [...] and the next thing you'd hear is just crickets in the background."

Some of Francesco's cards include prompts like 'Say the pick up line in Japanese' and 'Introduce myself in Japanese', while others reminded him to pay a compliment to his date, practising them all with his mum.

Channel 4

Viewers were touched by Francesco's effort to ensure his dates were free of awkwardness.

"Francesco with his flash cards is adorable and is inspiring," tweeted one fan, while another echoed: "I now have lots of dust in my eyes - thanks Francesco! So sweet."

The Undateables saw Francesco go on a blind date with 20-year-old art student Elysha , and he couldn't contain his shock and excitement as the dating agency gave him more information about her.

Later in the episode, which aired on Channel 4 earlier this month, Francesco met for his date with Elysha , with the pair heading to YO! Sushi for a hot bowl of ramen together.

Channel 4

While he appeared nervous at first, Francesco tried to keep his cool by taking a sneak peek at his prompt cards hidden next to him under the table.

But Elysha spotted them, advising: "You just have to relax," smiling at her match.

"I'm usually a chilled out guy," explained Francesco, "But since this is a special occasion..."

The pair bonded over their love of Japan and anime, making plans for a future visit, and Francesco really impressed as he gifted his date a waving fortune cat.

Channel 4

Elysha and Francesco finished their meeting with a hug, exchanging numbers for a potential second date.

You can stream the full episode of The Undateables here.

Topics: TV Entertainment

Rachel Andrews

Rachel Andrews is an NCTJ trained Journalist at PRETTY52. She specialises in Fashion and Beauty Journalism, and has experience at a range of online and print publications and joined the team in 2017. Contact her - [email protected]

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