Australia's media watchdog calls Married at First Sight allegations 'disturbing'
Australia's media regulator has said allegations that Married at First Sight Australia contestants were not told about their on-screen partners' past convictions for violence, assault, or drug use are 'serious and disturbing'. Several male participants were allowed on the show despite prior convictions or allegations, sparking concerns over background checks.
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has responded to a BBC investigation, calling the allegations concerning the show 'Married at First Sight Australia' (MAFS Australia) 'serious and disturbing'. The regulator noted that its jurisdiction is limited to checking whether broadcast content complies with industry codes of practice, which do not include provisions about participant welfare.
Nine former MAFS Australia stars told the BBC they want the show to improve background checks and stop allowing individuals with previous convictions to participate. In a joint statement, Channel 9 and production company Endemol Shine Australia said they take participant safety seriously and have a multi-stage checking process including police checks, psychological assessments, medical screening, and legal due diligence.
Meanwhile, Channel 4, which airs both MAFS Australia and MAFS UK, has removed all UK episodes from its streaming service All 4, though MAFS Australia remains available. Channel 4 has commissioned an external review into contributor welfare on MAFS UK, expected later this summer. Ofcom, the UK's media regulator, said the allegations are 'deeply concerning' and expects Channel 4 to consider them in its ongoing reviews.
The show features singles who agree to 'marry' strangers after meeting for the first time at fake weddings; these marriages are not legally binding. Participants go on 'honeymoons', live together, and navigate relationships while being filmed almost daily.
