Channel 4 has launched an external review into the welfare of participants on Married at First Sight UK after two women alleged they were raped by their on-screen husbands. The broadcaster has removed all episodes of the show from its online platform pending the review's outcome.
Former Channel 4 boss Lord Michael Grade, who also served as chairman of Ofcom, said he would never have commissioned the program. He argued that some reality TV formats have become exploitative and pose unacceptable risks to contestants' wellbeing, questioning the value of entertainment versus the need for extensive safeguards.
Lord Grade expressed shock at the allegations aired on the BBC's Panorama program and suggested more participants might come forward. He believes the pressure to attract larger audiences has increased risks, stating that broadcasters will now think carefully about the risks of such formats.
Former Married at First Sight Australia participant Tahnee Cook echoed concerns, saying the show can create a dangerous environment for women. The external review, announced by Channel 4's new chief executive Priya Dogra, will examine welfare protocols and the handling of claims by both Channel 4 and production company CPL Productions.
The review's first stage, led by law firm Clyde and Co, will investigate welfare protocols at the time claims were raised. The second stage, conducted by former BBC One controller Lorraine Heggessey, will assess whether changes are needed to strengthen participant protections. Channel 4 stated no decisions about the show's future will be made until the review's findings are published.
