MAFS expert John Aiken offers sage advice to ‘clout-chasing’ 2026 cast as relationships crumble amid mass walkouts: ‘It’s not worth it anymore’

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The television series “Married at First Sight” has typically been known for its turmoil, but the 2026 season is rapidly turning into one of the most challenging in the program’s history.

According to Daily Mail’s latest report, an unprecedented number of cast members are contemplating or have already departed from their ‘marriages’, with some even seen departing One Global Resorts in Sydney, luggage in tow, opting for a trip elsewhere over the weekend rather than investing time in their relationships.

Relationship advisor John Aiken cautions individuals not to jump ship too quickly if the initial attraction isn’t immediate.

In their case where the spark isn’t immediate, I’d always suggest they move closer, keep their minds open, and be willing to experience what it has to offer before making a decision, as Aiken shared with Daily Mail.

Walking away might seem simple, but this test requires you to persevere through unease and challenge yourself in unexpected ways.

Although this advice was given, some participants were observed packing up and leaving the state, causing producers to work hard to maintain the smooth progress of the experiment.

According to sources close to the situation, those involved in the pressure cooker experiment are finding it difficult to handle things – and for certain individuals, the prospect of immediate recognition no longer appears enticing enough.

According to a source who spoke with the Daily Mail this week, many members of the cast believed that by appearing, they could earn their blue checkmark, grow an audience, and potentially kickstart their careers as influencers.

In a nutshell, the circumstances are harsh, regulations are stricter than before, and the psychological impact has been significant.

Instead of regarding the experiment as a sincere opportunity for finding love, some participants are using it as a means to attain social media fame, according to insiders. Producers suspect this attitude might be contributing to the breakdowns and early departures from the event.

Another source mentioned that they are frequently reminded of the challenging nature of their journey. The stress is enormous, and some find it unbearable.

As a devoted follower of digital marketing and public relations strategies, I can’t help but notice how the spotlight has shifted dramatically in today’s world, as per the insights shared by Adrian Falk. This transformation underscores the immense pressure that Modern Family Australia (MAFS) contestants face now more than ever before.

According to Falk’s remarks to Daily Mail, “Married At First Sight remains the highest-rated program in the nation, attracting viewership that surpasses most other television content in Australia.

However, the situation has undergone a significant transformation. Back in the day, participating in MAFS would instantly catapult one to fame – endorsement deals, red carpet events, and a substantial social media following. Today, though, things aren’t quite so straightforward for the contestants.

In today’s digital age, it takes less reliance on traditional television platforms for individuals to gain fame as a creator, as audiences have grown more discerning and brands have become more selective.

According to Falk, the recent change has sparked doubts among people about whether the experiment remains as promising as it previously seemed.

In simpler terms, he stated that while Reality TV can help propel someone into the limelight, it’s becoming more apparent that social media platforms are crucial for establishing and maintaining a career.

‘For some of these cast members, the emotional toll of the experiment just isn’t worth the gamble.

Today, talent no longer needs to hold back on their careers, waiting for a chance on reality TV or a producer’s approval. Instead, they can create their own opportunities and growth paths.

Through the growth of social media platforms, content creators now possess the resources to establish their unique channels, attract followers directly, and earn income by leveraging their individual brand – all without setting foot on a traditional TV stage.

Falk says this has left some questioning whether MAFS is still the gateway to stardom it once was.

‘The truth is, the definition of “celebrity” has broadened,’ he added.

Television continues to have the power to bring people into the limelight, but more frequently, it’s social media that serves as a platform for launching, nurturing, and maintaining careers. For many aspiring contestants, the benefits of participating in such shows no longer seem worthwhile.

Married At First Sight returns to Channel Nine in 2026. 

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2025-09-02 01:18