Channel 4 has axed Married at First Sight UK for 2025 following allegations of sexual assault and an external review into participant welfare. Two women have alleged they were raped during filming, leading to the removal of all episodes from the streaming service.
Insiders say the pressure to maintain high ratings has led to increasingly risky situations for participants. Behavioural psychologist Jo Hemmings, who worked on the show, noted that while duty of care standards are high, the boundaries of entertainment are constantly pushed, increasing the likelihood of incidents.
A former Channel 4 executive said the UK version originally resembled a documentary but adopted the conflict-driven style of the Australian edition, which boosted ratings but introduced more tension. The show's future had been in doubt, with speculation it might follow Big Brother's path after a racism row led to its removal from Channel 4.
Caroline Dinenage, chair of the culture committee, described the show's premise as “an accident waiting to happen.” Channel 4 has not confirmed whether a planned spin-off, Second Marriage at First Sight, will proceed. The broadcaster will decide on airing the next series after the investigation concludes.
