**New TLC Series ‘Little Singles’ Aims to Change Perceptions within the Little People Community**
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The new reality show “Little Singles,” which premiered on June 15, has quickly caught the attention of viewers with its focus on the dating lives of individuals with dwarfism. Airing on Mondays at 9 p.m. ET on TLC, the series promises an insightful look into the complexities of relationships among a close-knit group of friends as they navigate love and friendship in Palm Springs. Those unable to catch the episodes live can stream them on HBO the following day.
Among the stars of the series are Krista and JJ, who are among five main cast members. The dynamic of the show is influenced by a love triangle involving Krista, 30, and her friends Sammy, 26, and Stephanie, 31, who share a complicated romantic history. Sam, who is self-described as someone who avoids labels, is at the centre of the tensions between his relationships, creating a lively, if complicated, atmosphere within their friendship circle.
The show’s concept is rooted in the idea that the world still harbours many misunderstandings about the little people community. Krista and JJ are determined to challenge these perceptions. Krista, who recently entered the dating scene within the little people community, reflected on the surprising challenges she faced. “It’s definitely a different ball game when it comes to dating in the LP community,” she explained. “I thought it was going to be like a cakewalk, and it was not.”
Krista elaborated that due to the tight-knit nature of the community, dating becomes a more competitive affair than she initially anticipated. “When we walk into a room of average-height people, it’s all eyes on us, so there’s almost zero competition. But if you go to an LPA event, we’re all on the same level,” she noted, highlighting the challenges unique to engaging romantically within a smaller community.
JJ, 37, has garnered considerable experience in both the little people community and in dating outside of it. Her background includes appearances on the reality show “Little Women: NY,” and she has performed as a dancer for prominent artists. While she concurs with Krista about the competitive nature of these relationships, she also finds herself surprised by the assumptions people have regarding her dating experiences.
“Average-sized people tend to think that little people only date other little people,” JJ explained, adding that many within her community do indeed engage in relationships with taller individuals. “If little people do date average size, there’s often a fetish associated with it, which isn’t the case for everyone. You can be tall or short and still find love.”
Both JJ and Krista feel a crucial responsibility to portray the realities of their lives authentically and shed light on the every-day experiences of those living with dwarfism. Krista expressed her desire to educate audiences about dwarfism. “I feel like it is my duty to be a teacher and educate about dwarfism. I think everybody needs to see,” she said.
On the other hand, JJ is less inclined to take on that educational role, noting, “I just live my life for me. Whatever decisions that I make in my life, I do it for myself.” Nevertheless, she acknowledges the importance of maintaining open conversations about dwarfism when prompted.
The series not only entertains but also serves as a platform to provide a clearer insight into what life is like for little people, particularly highlighting the misconceptions that exist. Viewers are introduced to the realities of relationships, as well as the challenges and joys that accompany navigating love and companionship.
As audiences tune in each week, the heartfelt stories of Krista, JJ, and their friends continue to resonate, paving the way for a deeper understanding of the complexities underpinning the little people community and their dating lives. Those interested can catch new episodes of “Little Singles” on TLC, with the option to stream on HBO the following day.