British police have urged anyone who believes they may have been sexually assaulted while taking part in the reality TV show Married At First Sight UK to contact authorities, following serious allegations revealed in a BBC Panorama investigation.
The investigation disclosed claims from three women linked to the Channel 4 programme. Two alleged they were raped during filming, while a third accused her on-screen partner of carrying out a sexual act without her consent.
The Metropolitan Police said no formal criminal complaints had yet been filed, but officers are encouraging potential victims to come forward regardless of how much time has passed. Police are also expected to seek further information from Channel 4 and the production teams behind the programme.
The allegations have sparked a major reaction across the UK media industry and political circles. A spokesperson for Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the accusations as “extremely serious” and said all claims must be fully investigated.
Following the documentary, Channel 4 removed all episodes of Married At First Sight UK from its streaming platforms and social media channels. The broadcaster also confirmed that it had already launched an independent review into participant welfare after receiving complaints about misconduct linked to the show.
CPL Productions, the company behind the UK version of the programme, defended its safeguarding procedures, describing them as “industry-leading” and insisting appropriate action had been taken whenever concerns were raised.
Among the women who spoke publicly is former contestant Shona Manderson. She accused her on-screen husband, Bradley Skelly, of ejaculating inside her without permission. Skelly denied any wrongdoing and said their relationship had always been consensual.
Two other women, who remain anonymous, also shared allegations against their television partners. One woman claimed she was raped and threatened with acid violence, while another alleged she was assaulted after filming had already begun. Lawyers representing the accused men denied the allegations and said all encounters were consensual.
The controversy has reignited debate about participant safety in reality television. Critics argue that programmes centered around intimacy and emotional pressure must provide stronger protections before, during, and after filming.
Several former cast members have since expressed support for the women involved, while advocacy groups and politicians are calling for stricter safeguarding rules across the television industry.
The UK communications regulator Ofcom said broadcasters are required to take “due care” of participants who may face emotional or physical harm as a result of appearing on television programmes. The regulator added that it would review the findings of Channel 4’s independent investigation.
Meanwhile, travel company Tui announced it was suspending sponsorship of the show as the controversy continues to grow.
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