Ofcom Opens Fairness Investigation into Married at First Sight UK After Cast Complaint

Ofcom launched an official investigation into Married at First Sight UK on Monday after receiving a fairness and privacy complaint. The regulator said it is examining a claim of unjust or unfair treatment lodged by a cast member. The complaint follows a BBC Panorama investigation broadcast in May that revealed rape allegations from two female cast members.

The men involved deny the allegations. BBC News reported earlier this month that a cast member had been arrested on suspicion of rape after the Panorama programme aired. Neither the arrested individual nor the alleged victim has been named.

Ofcom previously dismissed at least one other complaint from a cast member about treatment on the show. A spokesperson said such complaints are assessed on a case-by-case basis through a detailed process. In a June letter to MPs, Ofcom stated it would review Channel 4's welfare findings and consider further action if required, describing the Panorama allegations as shocking and deeply disturbing.

Channel 4 removed all episodes of the series from its streaming service in May hours before the Panorama broadcast. The broadcaster has commissioned an independent review into contributor welfare, due to conclude later this summer, though only a summary of findings will be published. No decision has been made on airing the latest filmed series.

Lawyers for production company CPL have described its welfare system as gold standard and industry-leading.