Married at First Sight UK Axed Over Rape Allegations as Australian Version Reviews Findings

Channel 4 has axed Married at First Sight UK, the British edition of the reality show in which strangers agree to marry before they meet. The decision follows rape allegations first revealed by BBC News earlier in 2026. The men accused deny the allegations.

Channel 4 chief executive Priya Dogra ordered two reviews after the allegations emerged. One examined welfare protocols, meaning the care and safeguards given to people who appear on the show. The other looked at future changes to contributor welfare. According to Deadline, the review led by Lorraine Heggessey suggested the UK series could continue with changes. Channel 4 decided to end it anyway.

The UK series was overseen by CPL, which is owned by Seven.One Studios.

The reviews have also reached Australia. Married at First Sight Australia is produced by Endemol Shine Australia, which is owned by Banijay, and broadcast by Nine. Both companies told Deadline they are examining the findings of Channel 4's reviews. Endemol Shine Australia said many of the recommended improvements are already in place. These include letting cast members keep in touch with friends and family, regularly refreshing the show's psychologists, and keeping casting and welfare teams separate. The company also said production of the Australian series continues.

Police in New South Wales are also involved. The force told BBC News that inquiries took place after a report of inappropriate content being shared related to the Australian show. Nine confirmed it is aware of a police investigation related to the series.

The format has several other versions. It began in Denmark, where it still airs on DR1. It is produced there by Snowman Productions, which is owned by Seven.One. The American version is made by Kinetic Content, which is owned by North Road. It is not currently filming, and it has not been picked up for new seasons.

Seven.One said its other Married at First Sight versions remain business as usual. Its distribution arm will keep selling older UK editions to buyers around the world.

For readers, the key points are simple. The UK version has ended. The Australian version is still in production while its producer and broadcaster examine the reviews and a police matter is being looked at.