A Married at First Sight star has claimed they were sexually assaulted by their newly matched partner during filming of the hit Chanel 4 reality show.
The troubling claim, understood to have been made shortly after the couple returned from their lavish ‘honeymoon’ has prompted police investigations, The Sun reports.
The report of the ‘non-recent’ incident was filed on June 14, but due to legal restrictions, the identities of those involved – including the police force handling the case – cannot be revealed at this stage.
Shockingly, scenes involving the alleged victim have already been broadcast, sparking outrage and raising serious questions over the show’s safeguarding policies.
It is the latest explosive scandal to rock the controversial dating series, now in its ninth season, which matches up complete strangers to marry at first sight.
They are then whisked off on a honeymoon and thrust into cohabitation.
Participants are also filmed attending boozy dinner parties and dramatic commitment ceremonies – often a hotbed for emotional meltdowns and fiery confrontations.
While Channel 4 initially denied receiving any complaints, the broadcaster has since admitted it is aware of the report made to police, prompting fresh scrutiny of the show’s vetting procedures and duty of care.
A Married at First Sight star has claimed they were sexually assaulted by their newly matched partner during filming of the hit Chanel 4 reality show
Shockingly, scenes involving the alleged victim have already been broadcast, sparking outrage and raising serious questions over the show’s safeguarding policies (file photo)
A source close to production told the newspaper that the situation is a ‘nightmare scenario’ for them as they have already been heavily criticised for throwing strangers together for viewers’ entertainment.
‘Now it’s alleged someone was assaulted after tying the knot. It is a disastrous look for bosses,’ the unnamed source added.
Police confirmed they are investigating the matter, telling The Sun: ‘We received a report of a non-recent sexual assault on June 14. Enquiries remain ongoing’.
A spokesperson for Married at First Sight also confirmed they were aware of a report being made to police ‘about an alleged sexual assault during the filming of a dinner party’.
They added that the team take any issues on the show ‘incredibly seriously’ and follow strict welfare protocols when it comes to the cast.
The spokesperson also reassured that support would be offered to anyone who reported an incident to authorities and that the show would participate with any investigations carried out as a result.
The fresh scandal comes hot on the heels of another controversy involving contestant Alexander Henry, who appeared on the current season despite being accused of domestic abuse.
Channel 4 rejected calls to axe him from the show, insisting his criminal background check had ‘returned clear’.
