Channel 4 cancels Married at First Sight UK after rape allegations

Summarised from 2 outlets · 3 reports · Updated 5 Nov, 12:17 · Archive

Channel 4 has cancelled Married at First Sight UK following allegations of rape during filming.

Channel 4 has cancelled Married at First Sight UK following a review prompted by serious allegations of misconduct during production. The broadcaster removed all previous seasons of the show in May after a BBC report detailed allegations of rape by two women during filming. A cast member was arrested on suspicion of rape following the BBC investigation.

Channel 4 commissioned two reviews to examine the show's procedures. A review by law firm Clyde & Co found that welfare protocols complied with broadcasting codes, although there were isolated incidents where the welfare framework was not fully implemented. A second review by former BBC executive Lorraine Heggessey found the protocols were 'extensive, extremely thorough and of a high standard'.

Chanel 4 chief executive Priya Dogra said the decision to cancel reflected the broadcaster's priorities. Although the reviews praised the welfare protocols and found no breach of the Ofcom Code, implementing all recommendations would 'fundamentally alter the show's format', Dogra said. She believed the show had 'run its course' after 10 years. The format is part of an international franchise operating in the United States and Australia.

How it is being reported

• Married at First Sight UK axed after rape allegationsMarried at First Sight UK will not return to screens following a review prompted by serious allegations of misconduct during the making of the hit British reality show.Perth Now · 5 Nov, 12:17
• Married at First Sight UK axed after rape allegationsBritain's Channel 4 has cancelled Married At First Sight UK following serious allegations of misconduct on the reality show.The West Australian · 5 Nov, 11:33
• Married at First Sight UK axed after rape allegationsBritain's Channel 4 has cancelled Married At First Sight UK following serious allegations of misconduct on the reality show.Perth Now · 5 Nov, 11:33

In this story: Channel 4 · BBC · Clyde & Co · Lorraine Heggessey · Priya Dogra · Ofcom

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