Bolia “BM” Matundu and Arlette Amuli have launched a new dating app called Luv or Pop following the success of their YouTube show [1, 2, 3].
The expansion signals a shift from digital entertainment to a functional matchmaking service. It comes as the creators face scrutiny over the nature of their viral content and its influence on romantic expectations.
The husband-and-wife duo unveiled the app during a gala held outside Phoenix in February 2024 [2]. The event marked the formal transition of the “Pop the Balloon or Find Love” brand from a streaming format to a dedicated platform for users to connect [1, 2].
Matundu and Amuli have defended the impact of their YouTube series against critics. They said the show is not the source of the problem in modern romance but rather a mirror reflecting it [4, 1]. According to the creators, the program exposes unrealistic expectations, materialism, and superficial standards that currently harm dating across different countries and races [4, 1].
The show's format, where participants can quickly dismiss potential partners, has sparked debate regarding the commodification of dating. However, the creators said the viral reactions seen on screen are symptomatic of broader societal trends rather than a result of the show's production [4].
By moving into the app space, the duo aims to provide a structured environment for those seeking connections. The Luv or Pop app seeks to capitalize on the massive viewership the couple has built through their YouTube presence [1, 2, 3].
“The show isn’t the problem; it exposes unrealistic expectations.”
The transition from a viral YouTube show to a commercial app reflects a broader trend of 'entertainment-to-utility' pipelines in the creator economy. By framing their controversial content as a social critique of modern dating, Matundu and Amuli are leveraging social commentary to build a user base for a scalable tech product.
