Ofcom launches investigation into Married at First Sight UK

Ofcom launches investigation into Married at First Sight UKByNoor NanjiCulture correspondentPublished1 minute agoMarried at First Sight UK is facing renewed pressure after the broadcast regulator launched an official investigation into the hit Channel 4 reality TV show.In a statement on Monday, Ofcom said it was investigating "a fairness and privacy complaint" about the prime-time show.In May, a BBC Panorama investigation revealed rape allegations from two female cast members on the show - allegations the men involved deny.An Ofcom fairness or privacy complaint can be lodged by individuals who participated in TV or radio programmes. Complaints like these usually relate to claims of being treated unfairly or having unwarranted infringements of privacy on programmes.It is understood the watchdog is considering a complaint of unjust or unfair treatment in relation to Married at First Sight UK.At least one other cast member previously complained to Ofcom about their treatment on the show, but the watchdog dismissed their complaint as it found the broadcaster had no case to answer.An Ofcom spokesperson said such complaints are considered "on a case-by-case basis through a detailed and careful assessment process".The Dark Side of Married at First SightPanorama investigates allegations that raise serious concerns that welfare procedures on Married at First Sight UK have failed contributors, leaving them at risk of harm.Watch on iPlayer nowWatch on iPlayerSeparately, in a letter to MPs in June, Ofcom said it would examine the findings of Channel 4's review into welfare on the show, and would "urgently" consider whether any further action is required.At the time, the watchdog called the allegations exposed by Panorama "shocking and deeply disturbing".Earlier this month, BBC News revealed that a cast member from the show had been arrested on suspicion of rape following the Panorama programme.The individual is not being named; nor i...