Producers of the hit television programme Married At First Sight UK have firmly denied that contestants were ever pressured or expected to be intimate, following allegations from a former staff member that the show fostered an unhealthy fixation on sexual activity.
Former Employee's Allegations
An ex-employee, Soraya Spiers, told the BBC that the production environment was toxic from the top down, claiming that showrunners placed undue emphasis on the couples' sexual relationships. Spiers, who worked on the series under a five-week contract, stated that there was an expectation for crew members to ascertain whether couples would sleep together on their wedding night, despite having only just met.
She also highlighted the difficulty for participants to simply walk away, contrasting it with a normal date where one could leave if uncomfortable. These claims add to a growing controversy surrounding the show's duty of care towards its contributors.
Production Company's Response
CPL, the independent production company behind the show for Channel 4, issued a statement rejecting the allegations. The company asserted that contributors are not pressured in any way or expected to be intimate. They emphasised that participants are clearly informed that there is no obligation to share a bed, and alternative solo sleeping arrangements have always been available throughout the filming process.
Regarding alcohol consumption, CPL stated that it is incorrect to say cast members are allowed as much alcohol as they want. The company has an Alcohol Protocol that provides clear guidance on consumption as part of robust welfare policies. Alcohol intake during dinner parties, including reunions, is limited and overseen by executive producers and the welfare team.
The statement also noted that the accounts of a toxic culture do not reflect the vast majority of positive experiences reported by over 1,200 production team members who have worked across all series.
Previous Allegations and Legal Action
Earlier this month, Channel 4 removed all previous seasons of the show from its streaming platforms after two women told BBC Panorama that they had been raped during filming. A third woman alleged sexual misconduct by her on-screen partner. The men involved have denied all claims.
Former participant Shona Manderson has also accused her on-screen partner of a non-consensual sexual act, which he denies. Police have urged potential victims of sexual assault on the show to come forward.
Channel 4's Review and Future Plans
Channel 4 launched a review into contributor welfare last month after being contacted by the BBC regarding the allegations featured in the Panorama documentary. Lawyers for CPL previously told Panorama that its welfare system was the gold standard and that it acted appropriately in all these cases.
Despite the controversy, Channel 4 has confirmed that its Married At First Sight spin-off show, Second Marriage At First Sight, remains in pre-production. The spin-off, announced in February, aims to bring together contestants from the UK and Australian versions for a second chance at love.
The production company's email to current and past crew and contributors, asking them to be mindful of commenting publicly or privately ahead of the Panorama episode, was defended as intended to provide support and prevent identification of the female cast members featured in the programme.
