Ofcom has launched a formal investigation into Channel 4's Married At First Sight UK (MAFS), following an unspecified complaint about the hugely popular reality programme. The inquiry follows allegations made by two women of rape and a third of sexual misconduct against their on-screen partners, which were broadcast in a BBC Panorama documentary aired in May. All three men have denied the allegations, reports the Irish Mirror.
Ofcom's Stance and Investigation Details
An Ofcom spokesperson said: "We are investigating a fairness and privacy complaint about Married At First Sight UK." It is understood the complaint originates from an individual or organisation connected to the programme. The Press Association also understands that the regulator has examined a separate complaint of unjust or unfair treatment on MAFS.
A cast member from MAFS UK was arrested on suspicion of rape in June. The Metropolitan Police told the BBC following the arrest: "This relates to an ongoing investigation, being led by the Met Police. He has since been bailed while inquiries remain ongoing." Neither the arrested man nor the alleged victim can be identified for legal reasons.
Panorama Documentary and Wider Concerns
In the wake of the Panorama documentary, Ofcom chief executive Dame Melanie Dawes said the allegations raised "really serious concerns", adding that the regulator stood ready to tighten its guidance around reality TV productions if deemed necessary. Channel 4 launched a review into contributor welfare in April, shortly after being approached by the BBC regarding the accusations featured in Panorama.
The broadcaster's chief executive Priya Dogra has insisted reports suggesting the programme had been axed were "wholly inaccurate" and "no decision has been made" about whether the next series will air.
Political and Public Scrutiny
MPs on the Culture, Media and Sport Committee have written to both Channel 4 and Ofcom regarding their handling of claims made in the BBC documentary. Committee chairwoman Dame Caroline Dinenage described the accusations as "horrifying", stating: "Both Channel 4 and Ofcom, as the broadcasting regulator, have urgent questions to answer."
The letter to Channel 4 demands clarification on its complaints procedures for programme participants, what steps were taken to ensure the allegations were rigorously investigated, and further details surrounding the review the broadcaster has announced. It also raises questions about the broadcaster's duty of care towards participants across its other reality television output.
Programme Background and Future
Billed as a "bold social experiment", MAFS sees unmarried individuals agree to "marry" complete strangers, having met for the first time at their mock ceremonies. The UK version of the reality series, now in its 10th season, stands amongst Channel 4's most-watched programmes, consistently drawing audiences of more than three million. However, in May the broadcaster withdrew all episodes of the programme from its streaming service mere hours before the Panorama investigation went to air.
Channel 4 has yet to make a determination on whether to broadcast the latest season of the show, which has already been filmed. Police have encouraged potential victims of sexual assault on the TV programme to come forward.
