Comedian and actress London Hughes recently shared a candid reflection on her dating journey, revealing that she only started dating Black men after moving to the U.S.
The Black British star took to social media to discuss how her experiences with men in the U.K. shaped her perspective on dating and her self-worth, especially as a dark-skinned woman.
In a viral video, Hughes explained:
“For the first time in my adult life, I’m dating Black men. It’s nice to be adored by your own kind, and that’s never really happened for me in the U.K.”
She highlighted the struggles that many dark-skinned Black women in the U.K. face, noting that Black men there often prefer white or racially ambiguous women.
Hughes also shared painful anecdotes from her past relationships, recounting instances where Black British men made her feel undesirable because of her natural features.
“I dated a Black guy who didn’t like it when I took off my wig to sleep,” she said. “He wanted me to keep it on because he didn’t like my 4C hair.”
In contrast, Hughes spoke warmly about her relationships with liberal white men, recalling how they treated her better and embraced her natural beauty.
She humorously compared her ex-boyfriends to “Benayas,” referencing the white male contestants on Love is Blind UK.
However, she expressed gratitude for her dating life in America, where she finally felt appreciated by Black men.
“Since moving to America, I’ve only ever dated Black men, and I want to thank America for that. I didn’t think I was cute until I moved here. In the U.K., I’m not seen as attractive. But here, Black men approach me, and for the first time, I feel wanted,” she said.
Hughes’ honest revelations have sparked widespread conversations about beauty standards, colorism, and the dating experiences of Black women in different parts of the world.
Her story resonates with many who have faced similar challenges and shows the complexities of dating while navigating societal expectations and racial dynamics.
