UMVA has learned that Channel 4's chief executive, Priya Dogra, has issued a deep apology following allegations of rape and sexual assault made by contestants on Married at First Sight UK.
The allegations surfaced after a recent investigation revealed that two women claimed to have been raped while filming the show, and a third woman alleged she had been assaulted. Dogra expressed her regret, stating that the women's accounts were "very troubling" and that their distress was clear.
According to information obtained by UMVA, Dogra emphasized that contributor welfare is a top priority for Channel 4, but noted that there were limitations on what she could say due to an ongoing review into contributor welfare. The review is expected to continue until late summer.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that Channel 4 has decided to press ahead with producing an upcoming all-star spin-off of MAFS UK, despite the recent allegations. The decision comes after a report that a contestant's episode aired while he was reportedly on bail for domestic violence allegations.
The contestant, who has not been named for legal reasons, was arrested for allegedly assaulting his ex-partner five days before his appearance on the show aired. The alleged victim's family reportedly warned Channel 4 about the contestant's history, but producers decided to air the episode.
Sources have confirmed to UMVA that a senior executive told the family, "We are not judge and jury," indicating that the broadcaster did not feel empowered to intervene. The man was not charged and was later told by police that he would face no further action.
The alleged victim reportedly suffered serious injuries, including black eyes and broken ribs, and also claimed that her ex-partner attacked her dog. A friend of the family expressed concerns that Channel 4 prioritized ratings over contestant welfare.
UMVA has gathered that Channel 4 has faced criticism for its handling of the situation, with some questioning the broadcaster's safeguarding system. In response, a representative for the broadcaster stated that MAFS UK stars undergo a rigorous vetting process, including DBS checks.
Channel 4 has stated that the allegations against the contestant were not related to his time on the show and that he was arrested after filming had completed. The broadcaster has also emphasized that it ensured the women involved were kept safe and received appropriate support.
