Married at First Sight (MAFS) is set to feature its most daring matchmaking experiment to date in its 2027 season, with producers pairing two bisexual brides, Victoria Sellar and Shona Marino, together. This move represents a significant gamble for the show's experts, who aim to foster a genuine connection between the two women.
Both Sellar, a Melbourne personal trainer, and Marino, a Virgin Australia flight attendant, independently expressed to producers during the casting process that they were open to relationships with either men or women. Recognizing this shared openness, the experts decided to pair them as a headline couple for the upcoming season. "They were definitely the wildcard couple," an insider revealed. "It was the biggest gamble the experts made this season. Both women independently said they were open to dating either sex, so once the experts realised they had two people looking for exactly the same thing, they decided to take the risk."
While the pairing is expected to generate significant buzz, sources emphasize that the match was not solely for publicity. The experts reportedly believed Sellar and Marino to be genuinely compatible. The success of this compatibility under the intense MAFS environment remains to be seen, but producers are optimistic about the potential for a compelling storyline.
On their wedding day, the contrast between the two brides was striking. Sellar opted for a traditional white gown with a lace veil and a bouquet of red roses. Marino, however, chose a strapless, floor-length black gown with a dark veil and a dramatic bouquet of burgundy flowers, marking a departure from typical MAFS bridal attire. The ceremony took place at Sydney Town Hall.
MAFS Australia has featured same-sex couples before, including the show's first lesbian pairing in 2020 and a gay couple in 2026. However, Sellar and Marino's match is distinct because both individuals entered the experiment open to a partner of any gender, without prior knowledge of who they would be matched with. The outcome of their pairing will be closely watched, with the potential for experts to be lauded as geniuses if the relationship succeeds, or scrutinized if it falters, raising questions about whether the match was based on genuine chemistry or a publicity stunt.
Other Cast Developments
Meanwhile, another bride, Perth cosmetic nurse Kodie Wyatt, displayed initial hesitation on her wedding day, appearing uneasy and making a swift entrance. This uncertainty reportedly dissipated once she met her groom, Wintah Cunnington, a coal miner from Byron Bay described as a "nice guy." Cunnington's modest social media following suggests a focus on genuine participants over influencers.
Industry Scrutiny on Casting
The 2027 season is being filmed amidst heightened scrutiny of the global MAFS franchise, particularly concerning contestant vetting and welfare. This comes after serious allegations, including claims of rape and non-consensual sexual acts, emerged in the UK, leading to an external review of contributor welfare by Channel 4. The scandal has intensified the pressure on producers, including EndemolShine Australia and Channel Nine, to ensure responsible casting and thorough vetting processes. The industry is increasingly aware that errors in casting can have significant consequences beyond entertainment value.
Producers acknowledge the need for drama and engaging personalities but also emphasize the importance of participant suitability and matches that hold up beyond promotional appeal. While Sellar and Marino are set to be promoted as a "bombshell couple," the show's success will depend on proving the authenticity of their connection to an increasingly discerning audience.
Guest List Constraints
In separate news, Sydney socialites Poata Okeroa and Charlie Austin reportedly did not make the guest list for one of the season's ceremonies. Okeroa, a hospitality identity, was reportedly limited to inviting only six guests, leading to difficult choices between family, friends, and other acquaintances. Their absence, while not a snub, highlights the restrictive guest limits on the show.