This decision comes after “very serious allegations” were made against some former “contributors” of the show.
A BBC Panorama investigation has revealed that two women claimed they were raped during the filming of MAFS UK, with a third describing an allegation of a non-consensual sex act.
The allegations led to the commissioning of an external review in April by Channel 4, focusing on the welfare protocols for participants.
Channel 4 removes MAFS UK episodes after sex assault claims
In a statement issued today (May 18), the broadcaster said: “In April, Channel 4 was presented with serious allegations of wrongdoing against a small number of past contributors, allegations that we understand those contributors have denied.
“The channel is mindful of the privacy and continuing duty of care towards all contributors, and cannot comment on or disclose details of those allegations.
“Related to those allegations, Channel 4 was asked to respond to claims of failures in welfare protocols.
“Channel 4 believes that when concerns related to contributor welfare were raised through existing welfare and production protocols, prompt and appropriate action was taken, based on the information available at the time.
“Channel 4 strongly refutes any claim to the contrary.”
Produced for Channel 4 by independent production company CPL, Married At First Sight UK (MAFS UK) matches single people together, with the couple then immediately meeting for the first time on their “wedding” day.
While the marriages are not legally binding, viewers see couples go on “honeymoon” before moving in together and navigating their relationships.
The UK version has been running for 10 seasons, with all episodes available on All4, before the allegations came to light through the BBC.
On the allegations, recently appointed Channel 4 CEO Priya Dogra said: “It would be wholly inappropriate for me to comment on what are very serious allegations made against some MAFS UK contributors.
“Those allegations – which I understand are disputed by the contributors accused – are not something that Channel 4 is in a position to adjudicate on.
“We are also mindful of our ongoing duty of care to all contributors, and the need to preserve the anonymity and privacy of all involved.
“On the claims that Channel 4 may have failed in its duty of care, I believe that when concerns about contributor welfare were raised, and based on the information available at the time, Channel 4 acted quickly, appropriately, sensitively, and with well-being front and centre.
“Nevertheless, because we aspire to the highest standards of contributor welfare, I felt strongly as Channel 4’s new CEO that it was right that we look again at how we handled issues raised at the time and ask whether changes should be made to further strengthen contributor welfare.
“That’s why I commissioned an external review of contributor welfare on MAFS UK.
“That review will report to me in the coming months.
“We take these issues very seriously and are committed to ensuring that we continue to lead the industry in our duty of care for contributors.”
