Channel 4 are currently sifting through applications from hopefuls who want to take part in a new reality TV show which would feature them getting married on the day they meet, then being filmed for the next six weeks before being offered the chance to get a quickie divorce…
And the concept has already sparked outrage from those who believe it’s “making a mockery of marriage,” however Channel 4 insist that the show is a “social experiment” that will shine a spotlight on how seriously, or not, we as a nation take our wedding vows.
A press release from Channle 4 about the show reads:
The vast majority of us are brought up to assume that love is something that just happens, but there are now 15.7 million single adults in the UK and marriage is at an all-time low (2011 census, office of national stats). Have marriage and monogamy had their day. Have we forgotten how to fall in love?
Channel 4 have acquired the rights to develop Danish format Married at First Sight for a UK audience; this ground-breaking social experiment will see three couples matched by man and machine according to scientific and sociological criteria and will be produced by CPL.
Chosen from an initial pool of over 200 applicants, six single people, each seeking long-term love, will enter into a legally-binding marriage with a complete stranger – meeting for the very first time at their own wedding where they’ll declare ‘I do’ in front of family and friends.
However, The Sun reports that Vivienne Pattison, the Director of Mediawatch-UK, said of the show, “It makes marriage look stupid.
“Channel 4 is trumpeting this as a social experiment but it isn’t…
“It’s just after ratings.
“Family breakdown costs the UK billions each year. This is irresponsible.”
However, Channel 4 boss Jay Hunt said, “This show will tackle Britain’s reputation as Europe’s divorce capital.
“In the countries where it’s already played out, the feedback has been very positive.
“The people involved have come back with a very different perspective on what they need from a relationship.”
Channel 4’s press release goes on to say, “Married at First Sight ultimately seeks to answer two questions…
“Can science produce a successful relationship and can the act of marriage itself help create a psychological bond that leads to true and enduring love?”
What do you think of the concept of this show? Is it making a mockery of marriage? Or is it akin to Big Brother with nuptials?
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