The bold concept of marrying someone you do not know has become a reality in South Africa and other parts of the world. South Africa has a history of producing popular reality shows that are widely aired in Europe, Australia, and the United States.

Notable reality shows from South Africa include Masterchef SA, Come Dine With Me SA, Deal or No Deal, Fortune Wheel, Survivor South Africa, and Big Brother Mzansi. The latest addition to this list is the controversial reality show ‘Married at First Sight.’

‘Married at First Sight’ is a reality show involving singles who agree to marry partners chosen for them by a team of relationship experts. Hoping for a perfect match, they meet their future spouses for the first time at the altar on their wedding day. The franchise is produced in at least 30 countries, with South Africa being the only African country in the lineup.

The show began airing on Showmax and Mzansi Magic on June 16. It captures the dreams of singles yearning for lifelong partnerships, as they agree to this provocative proposal and legally marry a stranger upon their first meeting.

Some viewers believe it takes guts to participate in such a show and applaud the participants for boldly putting their love lives out there. However, others have criticized the show, arguing it goes against their African beliefs.

The participants for this season include:

• Sebenzile Ngwenya (31) – Sales Consultant and Personal Trainer
• Thabang Mvuyane (28) – Software Tester
• Thami Nyandeni (35) – Education Sector
• Litsoanelo Seturumane aka Dee (31) – Law student and Pastry chef
• Khutso Mokoena (34) – Data Analyst
• Zithobile Sibaya (32) – Educator
• Khumo Ngobeni (25) – Aviation sector
• Boitshepo Mashetla (28) – Marketing Specialist