Married at First Sight is not a high-brow documentary series. We are entirely aware of this.
But last night’s episode, watched by over two million Australians, struck a unique chord with viewers and generated a heated ethical discussion with implications far beyond the realm of reality television.
Andrew Jones was sculpted as the quintessential jilted groom – a ‘good bloke’ who had been rejected by an indecisive and ultimately cruel woman. His bride, Lauren, left him following their wedding reception. He was given no explanation, and it appeared that for him, a 38-year-old fireman, the experiment had ended before it began.
Andrew braved the first dinner party alone and it was here he met Cheryl, a 25-year-old hairdressers receptionist who was matched with Jonathan. They lacked any emotional connection – a not uncommon outcome for a program that marries strangers.
Listen to Laura Brodnik and Tiffany Dunk explain why we need to call out the men on Married at First Sight on The Binge. Post continues after audio.
But when Cheryl discovered Jonathan’s ‘texting scandal’, she decided she had been matched with the wrong person from the beginning. It was Andrew she was interested in.
From the moment she made her ‘relationship’ with Andrew known to the other couples, there was unprecedented animosity. Reserved only for Cheryl.
Andrew deserved a second chance, while Cheryl was indecisive, immature, and likely had an ulterior motive.
Top Comments
Hahahah this author is obviously a very, very privileged western feminist. Life tip: reality TV aint real.
Wow. If we are suggesting that this gaslighting incident on a contrived TV show aimed at driving ratings is an insight into the male psyche then what does it say about the brides at the very beginning of the series who all put their partners physical attributes to the fore of their attraction? Way more than their male counterparts. Does this make all women shallow? Because if you are using a trashy reality show as a paragon of reality and window to mysoganistic behaviour then by the same token you have to agree all of the brides bar two, put physical characteristics over personality. Does that ergo make all women shallow? By extension it must, right? Right? Hypoctites.
Bingo. Don't blame men for your trashy taste in TV. It's DESIGNED to get you outraged lol.