MAFS Australia is gearing up for the next season, with significant changes reported in the casting process to make it more inclusive, mirroring the approach of the UK series.
According to Yahoo Lifestyle, producers are “actively pursuing” transgender and gender-diverse participants for the first time in the Australian version of the show. This follows the inclusion of Ella Morgan, the first transgender participant in the UK series last year.
Reportedly, the casting process has been revamped to include more detailed questions about sexual preferences and gender identity. The application now features a section asking applicants if they have ever been in a relationship with someone who identifies as transgender or non-binary, and if they would be open to being matched with such individuals. Additionally, all applicants are being asked about any same-sex experiences they have had or would be open to having on-camera, regardless of their sexual orientation.
A source close to the show told Yahoo Lifestyle: “Married At First Sight UK led the way last year by casting an openly trans bride, which caused huge discussion and discourse all around the world. Producers are now under immense pressure to raise the bar on our version to keep the format fresh.”
MAFS Australia expert Alessandra Rampolla recently addressed the show’s lack of diversity, explaining that it stems from a shortage of diverse individuals willing to participate.
She said: “I think that’s part of the reason why we haven’t had more representation of different sexual orientations and different sexual identities and whatnot on the show because we haven’t necessarily had those people raise their hand and say, ‘I want to be a part of this’.”