Married at First Sight UK (MAFS UK) is facing fresh legal trouble as six former cast members are reportedly preparing to sue the show over alleged welfare failures. The potential legal action comes amid an ongoing scandal that erupted after a BBC Panorama documentary aired in May, in which three former brides accused their husbands of rape and sexual misconduct. All three suspects deny the claims.
Legal Action Looms Over CPL Productions
According to The Sun, at least six former participants are consulting with a lawyer to evaluate their options. If they proceed, they will take legal action against CPL Productions, the production company behind the show. The group may also appeal for more former cast members to join their case. A source told the publication: "The claims on Panorama opened the floodgates. And now a number of former MAFS cast members intend to take action against CPL for what they see as a severe lapse in participant care."
Channel 4 Responds With External Review
Channel 4 has removed all seasons of MAFS UK from its streaming platform while a police investigation is ongoing. The broadcaster commissioned an external review into contributor welfare in April, which is now underway. In a statement, Channel 4 said: "We commissioned an external review into contributor welfare on MAFS UK, which has two elements. The first part is examining welfare protocols in place at the time claims were raised, as well as the handling by Channel 4 and CPL of those claims. The second part will examine if any changes should be made to current protocols for MAFS UK to strengthen contributor welfare. The review now needs to run its course."
Show's Future Uncertain
An all-stars edition of the show, tentatively titled Married at Second Sight, has been shelved due to the scandal. Principal filming was scheduled to begin this month but has been paused. However, the main series is expected to continue, as Channel 4 has brought in a new editor from Netflix's Love Is Blind to make "extensive" cuts to the upcoming season, which has already been filmed.
Earlier this year, Priya Dogra, chief executive of Channel 4, commented on the allegations: "I want to express my sympathy to contributors who have clearly been distressed after taking part in Married At First Sight UK. The wellbeing of our contributors is always of paramount importance. It would be wholly inappropriate for me to comment on what are very serious allegations made against some MAFS UK contributors. Those allegations - which I understand are disputed by the contributors accused - are not something that Channel 4 is in a position to adjudicate on. We are also mindful of our ongoing duty of care to all contributors, and the need to preserve the anonymity and privacy of all involved." She added: "On the claims that Channel 4 may have failed in its duty of care, I believe that when concerns about contributor welfare were raised, and based on the information available at the time, Channel 4 acted quickly, appropriately, sensitively and with wellbeing front and centre."
The Daily Star has approached MAFS and Channel 4 for comment.
