Channel 4 has initiated an external review into contributor welfare on Married at First Sight UK (MAFS UK) following what the broadcaster described as “serious allegations of wrongdoing” against a small number of former participants. In response, all previous seasons of the reality series have been removed from Channel 4’s streaming and linear platforms while the investigation is underway.
Review Details
In a statement, Channel 4 explained that the review will examine both the welfare protocols in place during filming and how concerns raised by contributors were handled at the time. The broadcaster announced in April that it had commissioned the external review, which is now in progress.
MAFS UK is a reality television series where single people, matched by experts, ‘marry’ strangers they meet for the first time on their wedding day. The show is produced for Channel 4 by independent production company CPL. According to Channel 4, MAFS UK operates under “some of the most comprehensive and robust welfare protocols in the industry,” including thorough background checks, a Code of Conduct outlining behavioural standards, daily contributor check-ins with a specialist welfare team, and access to additional support before, during, and after filming.
Allegations and Response
In April, Channel 4 received serious allegations of wrongdoing against a small number of past contributors, which the broadcaster understands those contributors have denied. Channel 4 stated it is mindful of the privacy and ongoing duty of care towards all contributors and cannot comment on or disclose details of the allegations. The channel was also asked to respond to claims of failures in welfare protocols.
Channel 4 believes that when concerns about contributor welfare were raised through existing protocols, “prompt and appropriate action was taken, based on the information available at the time.” The broadcaster strongly refutes any claim to the contrary. Despite this, Channel 4’s recently appointed CEO, Priya Dogra, instructed an external review last month.
Two-Part Review
The review has two elements. The first, conducted by law firm Clyde & Co, is examining the welfare protocols in place on the programme when claims were raised, as well as the handling of those claims by Channel 4 and CPL. The second element involves an external industry expert, former BBC One Controller Lorraine Heggessey, who will examine whether any changes should be made to current protocols to further strengthen contributor welfare. Heggessey is described as a highly experienced media executive with a deep understanding of programme making and a vocal advocate for rigorous welfare protocols in TV production.
Channel 4 expects the review to report in the coming months and will share a summary of findings and recommendations at the appropriate time.
Removal of Seasons
While the review is ongoing, all previous seasons of MAFS UK have been removed from Channel 4 streaming and linear services, along with the show’s social channels. This decision was made out of an “abundance of caution to avoid fuelling speculation or jigsaw identification,” considering the seriousness of the allegations and the broadcaster’s ongoing duty of care to all contributors.
CEO Statement
Priya Dogra, chief executive of Channel 4, expressed sympathy to contributors who have been distressed after taking part in the show. She stated, “The wellbeing of our contributors is always of paramount importance.” Dogra noted that it would be inappropriate to comment on the serious allegations, which she understands are disputed by the accused contributors. She added that Channel 4 is not in a position to adjudicate on those allegations and is mindful of its ongoing duty of care and the need to preserve anonymity and privacy.
Regarding claims of failures in duty of care, Dogra said, “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.” She emphasised that as the new CEO, she felt it was right to look again at how issues were handled and ask whether changes should be made to further strengthen contributor welfare.
Support Resources
If you or someone you know needs help, contact 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732), Sexual Assault Counselling Australia on 1800 211 028, the WA Sexual Assault Resource Centre on 6458 1828 or 1800 199 888, or Lifeline on 13 11 14.
