Ready to Love has become a staple in reality television, celebrating Black love in its most authentic and raw form. Now in its 10th season, the show returns in Philadelphia with twenty successful singles searching for something real in a city known for both love and grit. At the center of it all is host Thomas “Nephew Tommy” Miles, who has been guiding this journey since day one.
We had the chance to sit down with Tommy for an exclusive conversation about how the show has shaped him, what Philadelphia brought to the mix, and the lessons on love that continue to resonate with him and viewers alike.
FEMI: This is season 10 and the 150th episode of Ready to Love. As the host who’s been there from the beginning, how has this journey impacted the way you personally view love, relationships, and even your own marriage?
Tommy: Hosting Ready to Love has had a huge impact on me. When I first started, I was a little laid back, thinking, “Okay, it’s a dating show.” But over time, I really started to understand how intense and delicate love can be. It made me look at relationships differently. I genuinely want people to find love, and I know now more than ever that it takes real work, not just to find it, but to keep it. You have to show up for love, be present, and be willing to put in the effort.
FEMI: Philadelphia is known as the City of Brotherly Love, but also a place full of grit and resilience. What was it like for you to guide singles through the dating scene there, and did the city’s culture remind you of any lessons from your own life?
Tommy: Philly was different, in a good way. The word that comes to mind is “grit.” The singles there were real, raw, and unapologetically themselves. They didn’t play games, and they weren’t trying to be anything they weren’t. That kind of honesty reminded me how important it is to show up authentically in relationships. You had to be real about what you were bringing to the table, because they weren’t having anything less. I loved that energy, it was refreshing and powerful.
FEMI: The family introductions are always a turning point. As a husband and father, how do you personally connect with the importance of bringing family into the dating equation?
Tommy: Family means everything to me. My wife, my kids, and I are all about staying connected to our extended family on both sides. We make it a point to gather regularly, and that closeness keeps us grounded. When it comes to dating, I believe family brings the truth. They’ll tell you what’s real, whether you like it or not. That’s why I love the family introduction episodes on the show. It’s a reality check. Sometimes we’re blinded by the excitement of a new relationship, but family sees through that and helps you stay honest with yourself.
FEMI: You bring humor, wisdom, and a steady hand to some very emotional situations. How do you balance being “Nephew Tommy the entertainer” with being the voice of reason and encouragement for the cast?
Tommy: People know me as a comedian and have listened to me before. So, I never want to lose that [lighthearted] part of who I am. But at the same time, I have to be a coach and a mentor on this show. I try to strike a balance between being the fun, lovable Tommy and being the guy who’s going to hold you accountable. I’m your buddy, but I’m also going to challenge you to do better. That’s how I help these singles grow, by being both supportive and honest.
Season 10 of Ready to Love: Philadelphia not only marks a milestone but also a reminder of why this series continues to resonate with so many. Through all the laughter, challenges, and emotional moments, Nephew Tommy remains a guiding voice, proving that love is worth the work.
Images Courtesy of OWN.
Follow Us On Social Media!
