MIAMI \u2014 When Miami native John Merrill applied to be on Netflix\u2019s dating series Age of Attraction, he wasn\u2019t chasing fame.<\/p>\n
In fact, he says he barely knew what he was signing up for.<\/p>\n
\u201cI knew nothing about reality TV. I didn\u2019t have Netflix. I didn\u2019t watch TV,\u201d Merrill said. \u201cThat whole realm of entertainment was not something I knew about. I was just, \u2018Oh, I\u2019m single. It seems like a cool opportunity, so let me apply.\u2019 And now we\u2019re here.\u201d<\/p>\n
Now, months after appearing on the first season of the streaming series, the 28-year-old entrepreneur and model has returned to South Florida with a larger audience, a growing business and a fresh perspective on relationships and personal growth.<\/p>\n
Taking a Chance on Love<\/p>\n
Age of Attraction brings together singles of varying ages in an effort to challenge traditional dating norms and focus on emotional compatibility rather than age.<\/p>\n
Throughout the season, Merrill became one of the show\u2019s most recognizable personalities, earning attention from viewers for both his appearance \u2014 some dubbed him a \u201cPrince Harry look-alike\u201d \u2014 and his willingness to be vulnerable on camera.<\/p>\n
While reality television can be anything but ordinary, Merrill said the emotions and connections formed during filming were genuine.<\/p>\n
\u201cI guess it\u2019s a little unnatural kind of dating,\u201d he said. \u201cBecause it\u2019s all real. It\u2019s human emotion. It\u2019s human connection. It\u2019s real.\u201d<\/p>\n
The experience also pushed Merrill outside his comfort zone.<\/p>\n
A self-described introvert, he said adjusting to life in front of cameras was initially challenging.<\/p>\n
\u201cTo sit down in that first chair and have a bunch of cameras on me was definitely a learning experience,\u201d Merrill said. \u201cBut it\u2019s a skill that\u2019s good to have just for public speaking, for interviewing, for sales.\u201d<\/p>\n
From Reality TV to the Runway<\/p>\n
Since returning to Miami, Merrill has seen new opportunities emerge, particularly in the modeling industry.<\/p>\n
He recently walked in several shows during Miami Swim Week and now works with agencies in both Miami and New York City.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s kind of like a passion project right now,\u201d Merrill said. \u201cI\u2019m signed in Miami and I\u2019m signed in Manhattan. So I go back and forth between those two. Modeling is a way of expressing myself, and it\u2019s fun.\u201d<\/p>\n
Building a Brand Inspired by Miami<\/p>\n
Merrill has also shifted his professional focus toward fashion.<\/p>\n