The Today show experienced a temporary ratings boost in March as viewers tuned in for interviews with Married At First Sight contestants, but the effect proved short-lived once the reality series concluded.
According to News.com.au, the popular 2018 season of Married At First Sight provided a 'boost' for Nine's breakfast show, which heavily cross-promoted the program. Controversial cast members including Troy Delmege, Tracey Jewel and Nasser Sultan appeared on Today, while Davina Rankin featured in two A Current Affair specials.
Today achieved a rare metro ratings victory over Sunrise on Monday 19th March, attracting approximately 259,000 viewers in the five capital cities compared to Sunrise's 257,000. This coincided with New Idea's publication of the 'Ubergate' scandal involving leaked phone conversations between host Karl Stefanovic and his brother Peter.
However, the ratings spike was temporary. By the end of that week, Seven's Sunrise, hosted by David Koch and Sam Armytage, had regained its lead. Following the conclusion of Married At First Sight, many new viewers returned to Sunrise, suggesting the boost was directly linked to interest in the reality show.
