Married at First Sight Australia is set to return in 2026 with its 13th season — and reports suggest a gay couple has joined the cast, promising plenty of drama.
According to MailOnline, Sydney-based personal trainer Chris Robinson and Adelaide model Sam Stanton have been introduced to the experiment, alongside two other new couples, midway through filming.
Robinson, who has run his Body Skin Soul personal training studio for 12 years, also owns two coastal holiday rentals under the name Wave and Willow Retreat.
Stanton, meanwhile, is represented by Finesse Models and has appeared in campaigns for Knobby Underwear, Mazzuchelli’s, and SA Life Magazine. He is also the co-founder and head coach at Studio 360 Sports, and according to his now-private Instagram bio, is an ambassador for Lululemon and protein brand Happy Way.
Producers pushing for “fireworks”
A source told the outlet that the incoming couples were encouraged to bring drama from the outset.
“Even if they don’t hit it off romantically, they’ve been asked to ride it out until the end of filming,” the insider said.
Producers reportedly made it clear that no intruders would be allowed to exit early:
“No matter what, the intruders need to make their mark.”
On-set tensions
The latest addition comes as rumours swirl of behind-the-scenes chaos, including a “wild weekend” that saw contestants break curfew and fight. Reports claim one bride has already quit and a groom could be axed following an internal investigation.
While MAFS Australia has included LGBTQ+ couples before, none have lasted beyond filming. In 2016, the franchise’s first gay pairing, Craig Roach and Andy John, split during the experiment. Similarly, Amanda Micallef and Tash Herz in 2020, and Michael Felix and Stephen Stewart in 2024, failed to make it long-term.
Fans will now be watching closely to see if Robinson and Stanton can break that pattern when the new season airs.
