science
Channel 4 removes Married At First Sight UK episodes after rape allegations
Two women allege they were raped by on-screen partners during filming of the Channel 4 reality series. A third woman says she was subjected to a non-consensual sex act. The broadcaster has pulled all episodes from streaming and linear services.
May 19, 4:40 AM·2m read2 sources
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Two women have alleged they were raped by their on-screen husbands during filming of Channel 4's Married At First Sight UK. A third woman has alleged she was subjected to a non-consensual sex act by her on-screen partner. The BBC's Panorama investigation reported that the women said Channel 4 did not provide enough protection.
They also said the broadcaster was aware of some allegations before episodes aired.
Allegations and responses One woman told Panorama that her on-screen husband raped her and threatened her with an acid attack. Lawyers for that man told the BBC he denies rape and says all sexual contact was consensual. A second woman said she told both Channel 4 and production company CPL before broadcast that she had been raped by her on-screen husband.
Her episodes were still aired. A third woman, Shona Manderson, said her on-screen husband Bradley Skelly ejaculated inside her without permission. Skelly said he understood she had consented and denied any sexual misconduct. Channel 4 said it received serious allegations in April against a small number of past contributors.
It said prompt action was taken under existing welfare protocols and strongly refutes claims it failed in its duty of care.
Channel 4 actions and statements Yesterday Channel 4 removed all episodes of the show from streaming and linear services. Chief executive Priya Dogra expressed sympathy to contributors who had been distressed. Dogra said it would be inappropriate for the broadcaster to comment on allegations that are disputed by those accused.
She said Channel 4 acted quickly and appropriately when welfare concerns were raised. Holiday company Tui told BBC News it is pausing sponsorship of the show.
Regulator and government reaction The Department for Culture, Media and Sport said the allegations are serious and there must be consequences for criminality or wrongdoing. Officials said all allegations must be referred to the appropriate authorities.
