Brad Skelly, a figure from the reality show 'Married at First Sight,' has announced his engagement to his girlfriend Toni, a development that follows accusations of sexual misconduct made by his ex-wife, Shona Manderson. Skelly revealed the news on Instagram on Friday, sharing images from the proposal and stating, "The next chapter 26.06.26."
. Skelly and Toni, who publicly confirmed their relationship in 2024, posed for photographs following the proposal, with Toni displaying a diamond ring.
The engagement announcement comes approximately one month after Manderson appeared in a BBC Panorama documentary, where she accused Skelly of a non-consensual sexual act during their time on the program. Skelly has denied these allegations, stating that he believed the sexual contact was consensual and that he denies any sexual misconduct.
Manderson, who waived her anonymity, described her experience on the show as initially feeling like a "movie" with Skelly expressing his love. However, she stated that his demeanor shifted, becoming critical and that she felt she was "walking on eggshells." She also indicated that while others appeared concerned for her well-being, no direct interventions regarding Skelly's behavior towards her were made. Manderson further revealed that she became pregnant after leaving the show and subsequently had an abortion.
According to Panorama, the couple was removed from the show by Channel 4 and production company CPL shortly after the alleged incident, due to concerns about the relationship's health. The production company stated that safeguarding measures were implemented to protect Manderson's well-being. The couple remained together for about six weeks after leaving the program before separating.
Channel 4 has removed all episodes of 'Married at First Sight UK' from its streaming and linear services while an external review of the program's welfare procedures is conducted. The broadcaster stated that contributors had repeatedly assured producers they felt safe and wished to continue participating. A spokesperson for Channel 4 confirmed that the review is examining the welfare protocols in place at the time the claims were raised and how they were handled, as well as assessing current protocols to further strengthen contributor welfare.
Lawyers representing Skelly issued a statement denying any allegations of sexual misconduct, violence, or controlling behavior, describing the relationship as based on mutual consent, care, and affection.