As the first large-scale queer dating reality show, Gagaoolala’s “Boys Like Boys” has been making waves because of the show’s commitment to authenticity and its potential to deeply resonate with audiences by depicting the complexities of queer relationships in a real and relatable manner. Warner Bros. International Television Production’s (WBITVP) recent acquisition of this pioneering queer dating format has tipped the scales in favor of queer and gay relationship genre. Whilst everyone is celebrating the acquisition, we bring to you the winners of the first season. Known for their mature disposition, Gino and Guan Yu are a match made in heaven. Their journey wasn’t an easy one, albeit what matters are their love and sincerity. Join us as we strike a conversation with the cute couple and discover their secrets!

Questions for Gino

1) Your primary job is as an insurance sales manager and you have a secondary job as a KOL. Despite your busy schedule, why did you choose to participate in “Boys Like Boys”?

I wanted to approach romance differently. In reality shows, because you can’t use your phone, you can focus more on the interaction between people right in front of you.

2) As the oldest in the group, you must have experienced your share of heartbreaks. Wasn’t it a difficult decision to put yourself out there in a reality show?

Not at all, I tried my best to “empty” myself completely and engage with being the most authentic version of myself.

3) You seemed smitten with Guan Yu since “Day One” and your affections never wavered? What made you choose him?

I was deeply moved by Guan Yu’s sincerity, which made me pause and reflect on what I truly wanted. After sorting through my feelings, I realized I still liked Guan Yu. He gave me the courage to experience different forms of love (long-distance), and that’s why I chose him.

Questions for Guan Yu

1) As a coach who specializes in senior fitness and special population, you were one of the most popular contestants this season? Did you feel overwhelmed or was the experience exciting?

I feel pleasantly surprised and happy to have everyone’s appreciation. Since I don’t have many LGBTQ friends in Taitung, I wasn’t sure about everyone’s preferences. Professionally, I enjoy helping the elderly, and it makes me believe that it’s never too late for anyone to do anything, as long as they work hard. I also wanted to pass on this passion for life and simplicity to everyone.

2) You have a very thoughtful disposition and are quite mature. How have your life experiences shaped your character?

Because of my parents’ work nature, my sister often accompanied me. Despite her young age, she took on the responsibility of taking care of me, which made me realize that I had to grow up quickly and take responsibility for myself to lighten the burden on my family. It made me more thoughtful before making any decisions.

3) In the latter half of the show, your affections keep fluctuating between Gino and Nio. What made you choose Gino as your partner?

Nio is very talented, I admire his music and life experiences. However, at that time, I felt that our lifestyles and values were very different, and I felt some pressure that it might not be suitable. On the other hand, Gino treats everyone like a friendly older brother, is always caring and helpful, which made me let my guard down and believe in his sincerity. In the process of getting along, we always had good understanding and joy. This sense of ease is the most important reason why I chose him.

Couple Questions

1) If offered a choice to act in BL dramas or queer related content, would you be willing to do so? If yes, then what kind of scripts/programs will interest you?

Guan Yu: I hope to have the opportunity to try works that deal with the challenges of gender identity in campus or family settings. I hope the world can accept various sexual orientations, and I want to help more people who have not been fully accepted on this path with more guidance and encouragement. I’m also interested in talk shows because I have a very friendly relationship with my family, and I want the previous generation of parents to understand that we are not different. We are still children deeply loved by our parents.

Gino: I’m willing to try. I would like to participate in programs/dramas that deal with LGBTQ minority issues, such as older gays or those who want to come out but are afraid…

2) As active members of the LGBTQ community, what is your message to the international BL community? What do you want people to know about you?

Guan Yu: I am grateful to be in such a free and friendly environment now because of everyone’s gradual promotion and cultivation over the years. I cherish it very much. I hope friends who have difficulties in gender identity don’t lose heart. Let’s continue to bravely love ourselves and others, and the future will be better. I will continue to maintain this belief and spread it.

Gino: I hope to bring some positive energy to everyone through reality shows and carry this strength with me.

The BL Xpress would like to express their gratitude to Gino & Guan Yu for this exclusive. We are also grateful to Ms. Sherry Liu from Gagaoolala for arranging this interview and graciously working on the translation as well!