Married at First Sight UK faces scrutiny after rape and assault claims

Three women who appeared on Married at First Sight UK have made serious allegations of rape and sexual assault. The claims have prompted questions about whether police will investigate and whether Ofcom will examine safeguarding in reality television.

Channel 4 has come under pressure over its welfare processes and finances. The broadcaster's advertising revenue has fallen sharply in recent years. CPL, the production company behind the series, is also facing questions.

Channel 4 said it commissioned an external review of welfare on the show last month after receiving the allegations. CPL said its welfare protocols are industry-leading and that it acted appropriately in all cases.

Some of the allegations were raised during or shortly after filming, according to the women, but episodes were still broadcast. Channel 4 said it took prompt action when concerns about contributor welfare were raised and that it was only made aware of a rape allegation after the series had aired.

The show's format changed in 2021 to include dinner parties and more socialising. Caroline Dinenage, chair of the Culture, Media and Sport Committee, said the expectation that participants share a bed and a life immediately after meeting made problems almost inevitable.

CPL described its welfare processes as the gold standard. Channel 4 said the programme has robust systems, including background checks, daily check-ins and psychological support. Jess Phillips, the former safeguarding minister, said that even when welfare procedures were triggered, they did not result in substantive action.

Channel 4 previously described the allegations as wholly uncorroborated. Chief executive Priya Dogra said she had launched an investigation after the BBC shared its story with the broadcaster last month. The channel has previously aired investigations into sexual abuse, including a documentary about Russell Brand.

The next series of Married at First Sight UK has already been filmed and is due to air in the autumn. Its main sponsor has paused its involvement. Channel 4 reported a £52 million deficit in 2023 and has been trying to shift toward digital revenue.