The Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) has stated that allegations of rape involving Channel 4's Married at First Sight UK must be thoroughly investigated, with consequences for any criminality or wrongdoing. This follows a BBC report on Monday detailing claims from three women regarding sexual misconduct during the production of the dating show.
Allegations of Sexual Assault
According to the BBC, two women reported being raped during the filming of the program, while a third described a non-consensual sex act. One woman reportedly told BBC Panorama that her onscreen husband raped her and threatened her with an acid attack. Another said she was raped by her onscreen husband and had informed Channel 4 and the production company CPL before broadcast, but her episodes were still aired. A third woman accused her onscreen husband of sexual misconduct.
DCMS Response
In a statement to the BBC, the DCMS emphasized that all allegations must be referred to the appropriate authorities and investigated with full cooperation. The department stressed the need for action to ensure the highest standards are upheld and that there are consequences for criminality or wrongdoing.
Channel 4's Actions
Channel 4 has removed all previous seasons of Married At First Sight UK from its streaming platforms, citing "very serious allegations." The broadcaster also announced that in April it had commissioned an external review into contributor welfare. In a statement, Channel 4 said it was presented with serious allegations of wrongdoing against a small number of past contributors, which it understands those contributors have denied. The channel refuted claims of failures in welfare protocols, asserting that prompt and appropriate action was taken when concerns were raised.
Production Company's Stance
Lawyers for CPL, the independent production company behind the show, told the BBC that its welfare system was "gold standard" and that it had acted appropriately. Priya Dogra, chief executive of Channel 4, maintained that the channel acted quickly, appropriately, and sensitively when concerns about contributor welfare were raised.
Parliamentary Scrutiny
Alex Mahon, former chief executive of Channel 4, is due to face questions from MPs on Tuesday in a pre-scheduled meeting of the culture, media and sport committee. Committee chair Caroline Dinenage described the show as "an accident waiting to happen," noting that couples who have just met are expected to share a bed and a life together under the glare of TV cameras. Security Minister Dan Jarvis also expressed extreme concern, stating that the allegations must be thoroughly investigated.
