Post may include affiliate links, which may earn us a commission
As summer heats up, so does the anticipation for “The Boyfriend,” Japan’s first same-sex romance reality series set to debut on Netflix this July.
This groundbreaking show promises to bring a refreshing twist to the reality romance genre by focusing on nine young men exploring love and friendship in a picturesque seaside town.

Launching on July 9, “The Boyfriend” will drop new episodes every Tuesday in batches, with the season finale airing on July 30.
Over the course of ten episodes, viewers will get to follow the lives of these men as they live together in a beachside house called the “Green Room” and work at a coffee truck, creating an engaging blend of personal growth, friendship, and romantic entanglements.
The series is not just about finding love; it’s about the journey and the personal stories that each participant brings to the table.
Executive producer Dai Ota emphasizes that the focus is on highlighting the young men’s friendships and personalities, ensuring that the show resonates on a deeper level beyond just romantic connections.
Chief producer Keisuke Hishida adds that the show also delves into shared experiences and struggles, which often led to unexpected and touching moments on set.
+Related: Italian Reality Hunks’ Year of Drool-Worthy Love
The significance of “The Boyfriend” cannot be overstated in a country where LGBTQ+ representation is still evolving.
Japan, though progressive in many ways, remains socially conservative regarding LGBTQ+ issues.

This series marks a notable shift, bringing visibility and normalization of same-sex relationships to a mainstream audience.
Hosting this journey are a group of eclectic commentators, including Megumi, Chiaki Horan, Thelma Aoyama, Durian Lollobrigida, and Yoshimi Tokui, who will provide insights and reactions as the romantic stories unfold .
In essence, “The Boyfriend” is more than just a show; it’s a milestone for LGBTQ+ representation in Japan.

As the series premieres, it holds the promise of not only entertaining but also inspiring conversations and acceptance across the nation and beyond.
Get ready to binge-watch and fall in love with “The Boyfriend” starting July 9 on Netflix!
+Related: ‘I Kissed a Boy’ Dan Harry Stars in HIV Trial Film