Six years after exploring the dating-reality-show format with Ultimate Love, MultiChoice, through Africa Magic, has unveiled a fresh series, Heartbeat.

While both Ultimate Love and Heartbeat are Nigerian reality dating shows that bring single contestants together in a secluded house to find love, there are notable differences in format and prize structure.

In Ultimate Love, couples competed to be crowned the “Ultimate Couple,” winning a cash prize, a fully furnished apartment, and an all-expenses-paid traditional wedding—emphasizing a clear, life-changing commitment.

In contrast, Heartbeat introduces a more flexible approach. At the show’s climax, couples can offer their partner a “Promise Lock,” a symbolic pledge to continue their relationship beyond the house, potentially leading to a lasting partnership without the direct guarantee of a sponsored wedding.

Another distinction is the number of contestants: Ultimate Love featured 22 housemates (11 males and 11 females), whereas Heartbeat has 10 participants (5 males and 5 females) seeking love.

The first season of Heartbeat premieres on Sunday, January 11, 2026, slightly earlier in the year than Ultimate Love, which debuted on February 11, 2020.

The season’s love seekers include: Alvin Leonard (25), Igwe Cruise (29), Henri Promise Chibueze (27), Ken Nwaomucha (26), Ikenna Damian Maduba (31), Chidera Eggerue (30), Queen Latifah (28), Hilda Braso Agyekum (28), Shekinah Esosa (24), and Toriah Kim (26).