The British communications watchdog Ofcom has initiated a probe into the controversial TV show Married at First Sight UK broadcast on Channel 4.
Ofcom has only disclosed that the investigation is underway, falling under the category of “Fairness and Privacy” after several complaints were lodged. A representative for Ofcom stated, “We are currently investigating a complaint regarding Fairness and Privacy on Married At First Sight UK.”
The director of broadcasting for the regulator had previously informed British legislators that Ofcom would review an “advance copy” of Channel 4’s internal welfare examination regarding the program and would “urgently” decide if any regulatory measures need to be implemented. To date, Channel 4’s internal welfare inquiries have not been concluded.
A few weeks ago, Married at First Sight UK was embroiled in controversy following multiple allegations of rape, and one participant was arrested on suspicion of rape. An investigation by BBC News revealed that two women accused their partners from the show of rape, while another woman reported a non-consensual sexual act. According to Ofcom’s Cristina Nicolotti Squires, these allegations are “deeply disturbing.”
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In response to the allegations, Channel 4 launched two separate investigations in May, one handled by a law firm and another led by former BBC One head Lorraine Heggessey, and pulled all episodes of MAFS from its streaming platform. Representatives for MAFS UK production company CPL Productions contested some parts of these allegations at that time.
In late May, Channel 4’s CEO Priya Dogra issued an apology to the women who came forward with the troubling rape allegations.
MAFS UK is among the most popular shows on Channel 4 and has been on the air for over a decade. The format of the show involves participants marrying strangers at the altar, enjoying a honeymoon, and then deciding if they wish to continue their relationship.
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