The casting strategy for Married at First Sight is in need of a fundamental overhaul, and it appears that such changes are on the horizon. Since its debut on Lifetime in 2014, the show has evolved significantly. Initially, three experts were brought in to match and counsel couples who were marrying strangers. Now, with 18 completed seasons, the format has matured, although the core eight-week experiment remains the same. Over the past years, the expert panel has also undergone transformations, welcoming new faces while retaining some familiar ones.
Dr. Pepper Schwartz has been a steadfast presence since season 1, while Pastor Cal Roberson joined in season 4, and Dr. Pia Holec was added in season 15. Changes in format have emerged, particularly in terms of how couples interact. In earlier seasons, contestants had minimal interaction, while current iterations see all matched pairs sharing honeymoon experiences and living together, which heightens the dramatic narrative. Despite a history of cast failures, there is reason for optimism regarding adjustments in future casting.
How Does MAFS Cast People?
Scouting Tactics
As a trailblazer within the reality television landscape, Married at First Sight is currently experiencing a pivotal period of transition. Recent developments indicate that MAFS will shift from its traditional platform on Lifetime to a new home on Peacock. Competing in the streaming arena, particularly against Netflix, this change is significant. Unfortunately, the casting strategy employed during its time on Lifetime has often resulted in a lack of captivating and emotionally intelligent participants—an essential requirement for the experiment’s success.
The casting approach combines multiple methodologies. Each season, MAFS travels to different metropolitan areas, with cities like Chicago, Boston, and New York hosting several rounds of the matchmaking process. Local singles are invited to apply online when the show focuses on their city. However, a concerning trend has emerged: applications have significantly declined over the years, leading to a limited pool of suitable candidates.
The second tactic for recruitment involves scouts searching through dating apps and social media platforms within the chosen city. Potential candidates are approached and encouraged to submit applications based on their perceived compatibility. However, this practice is troubling as it raises questions about the motivations of applicants who may prioritize social media exposure over genuine intentions for marriage. With the transition to Peacock, the hope is that the casting process will evolve into something more organically appealing, reducing reliance on scouting and increasing genuine interest.
MAFS Has Cast Many Problematic Participants
Clout Chasers & Emotional Disconnect
After examining the casting strategy, it’s crucial to acknowledge the issues with some of the recruited participants. For instance, Alyssa Ellman, from season 14 in Boston, openly stated that she never applied but was scouted instead. Her expectation that experts would create a perfect match led to disappointment when she married Chris Collette. Her refusal to engage with him based on physical appearance highlights a lack of maturity and understanding of the experiment’s purpose.
In season 18, cast members David Trimble and Madison Myers were also recruited and quickly became embroiled in a scandal—engaging in an affair during the honeymoon and seeking to be together after abandoning their original spouses. These cases underscore the failures of the recruiting strategy, as many of those chosen were ill-suited for the journey of marriage.
MAFS Could Learn from The Golden Bachelor & Bachelorette
Friends & Family Nominations
It is evident that MAFS must reconsider its casting framework to minimize the likelihood of mismatched personalities. One viable solution could be inspired by The Golden Bachelor and The Golden Bachelorette, which involve nominations from friends, family, or coworkers. This innovative approach has proven effective for casting quality on both ABC shows, and integrating such a strategy could enhance the applicant pool for MAFS.
MAFS Is Targeting an Older Demographic
The Most Significant Shift
Historically, MAFS has favored a younger demographic for casting. An example is the 25-year-old Domynique Kloss from season 16, who claimed to have a maturity level beyond her years, only to pursue a quick divorce from Mackinley Gilbert after their honeymoon, indicating her unpreparedness for marriage.
While most participants have ranged in age from their mid-twenties to late twenties, season 18 introduced a significant shift with participants Thomas McDonald at 42 and Ikechi Ojoré at 41. This trend toward casting older individuals is promising, as they may possess the emotional intelligence and life experiences necessary for successful partnerships. The upcoming season 19 plans to feature participants in their late forties to early sixties, reinforcing a progressive move towards inclusivity and a departure from ageism within MAFS (via @mafsfan). Positive changes in casting move the show towards a refreshing new direction, which is an exciting development to witness.
Source: @mafsfan/Instagram