Channel 4 Cancels Married at First Sight UK After External Review

Channel 4 ended its run of Married at First Sight UK on Thursday morning, a move that left cast members divided between relief and sadness. The cancellation came after an external review examined the broadcaster's handling of serious welfare allegations. The show had been in crisis since May, when a BBC Panorama program aired footage featuring two women who said their on-screen husbands raped them. A third woman, Shona Manderson, was the only participant identified by name in that investigation. She alleged a non-consensual sex act. The men involved have denied the claims against them.

Manderson spoke by telephone after the news broke. She said her primary emotion was relief that their voices had been heard. "Speaking out wasn't easy, but knowing that our voices have helped bring about change makes it all worthwhile," she said. Two other women who contributed to the BBC's investigation also reacted to the decision. One texted that she was delighted and relieved no one else would have to go through the same experience. Another described feeling great consuming relief but expressed astonishment that an external review was required to stop the program. She called suggestions that a safe word or panic button would have been sufficient "absolute insanity."

None of the three women were informed in advance of the cancellation, though two participated in the review. April Banbury, who appeared in the 2022 series, said the show should have been cancelled years ago. Her on-screen husband was later arrested on suspicion of controlling and coercive behavior, though police dropped the investigation. He called the allegations against him false. Another cast member, who requested anonymity, noted that canceling the show does not erase what happened. That person wanted answers and accountability from those responsible for allowing the issues to persist.

Not all former participants shared the same sentiment. Jay Howard, from the 2023 series, said the show brought her friendships and opportunities. Marilyse Corrigan, a 2021 bride, described the experience as a chapter she viewed with fond memories. Lara Eyre, also from the 2022 series, expressed concern for staff working on the show and sorrow for fans. She described the situation as a shame for the cast of the current year, whose footage will never be aired. "I know a lot of people loved it, I loved it," Eyre said. "Yes, I know it was traumatic.. But it was a big part of a lot of people's lives."

Channel 4 released only a summary of findings from its review, not the full report. The broadcaster stated that the review did not seek to adjudicate on the specific allegations of wrongdoing, which remain a matter for relevant authorities. Channel 4 said the review found no breach of Ofcom's broadcasting code in how it and production company CPL handled the issues at the time. Priya Dogra, the channel's boss, told BBC News on Thursday that the broadcaster's handling of incidents was appropriate. She said the review confirmed that assessment.

Questions remain about why it took so long for Channel 4 to investigate after being warned by the production company. The broadcaster is scheduled to appear before the Digital, Culture, Media and Sport committee on November 17. An Ofcom investigation into the show is ongoing. In June, a male cast member was arrested on suspicion of rape. Channel 4 also announced it will not air international editions like MAFS Australia again.