Married at First Sight UK cast member arrested on suspicion of rape
Topics: Married at First Sight UK, TV And Film, Crime, UK News
Rhiannon Ingle
Featured Image Credit: Getty Stock Images
Topics: Married at First Sight UK, TV And Film, Crime, UK News
Warning: This article contains discussion of rape which some readers may find distressing.
A cast member from Married at First Sight UK has been arrested on suspicion of rape following a BBC Panorama investigation into the hit reality show.
The individual has not been named. The alleged victim is also not being identified, as anyone who makes an allegation of rape is entitled to anonymity by law.
The Panorama documentary, which aired earlier this year in May, revealed rape allegations made by two female cast members, while a third woman alleged a non-consensual sex act.
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The men involved have denied all allegations against them.
Following the broadcast, the Metropolitan Police urged 'anyone who believes they have been a victim of sexual assault' after taking part in Married at First Sight UK to come forward.
In a statement to BBC News, the Metropolitan Police said a man had been arrested on suspicion of rape.
It continued: "This relates to an ongoing investigation, being led by the Met Police.
"He has since been bailed while enquiries remain ongoing."
Just hours before the Panorama investigation aired in May, Channel 4 removed every episode of the show from its streaming service.
The broadcaster has since commissioned a review into contributor welfare on the series.
While the review is expected to conclude later this summer, Channel 4 has said it plans to publish only 'a summary of findings', rather than the full report.
A decision as to whether the latest series, which has already been filmed, will be broadcast is yet to be made.
Lawyers representing CPL, the independent production company behind the UK version of the show, have previously said its welfare system is 'gold standard' and industry-leading.
Married at First Sight UK sees single people get matched by experts to 'marry' strangers, whom they meet for the first time on their wedding day.
While the 'marriages' on MAFS UK are not legally binding, the couples do go on 'honeymoons' and move in together after their weddings.
Tyla has reached out to both the Metropolitan Police and CPL for further comment.
If you have been affected by any of the issues in this article and wish to speak to someone in confidence, contact the Rape Crisis England and Wales helpline on 0808 500 222, available 24/7. If you are currently in danger or need urgent medical attention, you should call 999.