Married At First Sight UK continues tonight (Monday 22nd September), with two more couples getting married.
The series returned on Sunday 21st September and saw the first two couples get married. Sarah and Dean were the first to say “I do”, followed by Davide and Keye. But unfortunately, it wasn’t love at first sight for everyone…
In episode two, Nelly and Steven and Grace and Ashley will get married when they meet for the first time at the altar, and judging by last night’s teaser it’s not looking good for one bride.
It’s a super-long episode, kicking off at 9pm and ending just before 11pm, so we’ll also get to see the first set of newlyweds head off on their honeymoons.
As the series continues and the drama heats all the way up, read on for everything you need to know about this year’s cast, including the already confirmed couples and who else we think should be matched up.
Married At First Sight UK 2025 cast
Below is a full list of this year’s brides and grooms:
Neelima (Nelly), 30, cosmetic dentist from ManchesterAnita, 54, operations manager from DurhamRebecca, 32, aesthetics nurse from LiverpoolJulia-Ruth, 29, professional dancer from New ZealandLeah, 35, business owner from LiverpoolMaeve, 29, aesthetics practitioner from NewcastleGrace, 31, midwife in mental heath services from NorwichLeigh, 30, NHS clinical coder from RomfordSarah, 31, recruitment consultant from AberdeenDavide, 33, cabin crew from PortugalJoe, 31, personal trainer from HuddersfieldSteven, 34, investment banking manager from EssexAshley, 35, operations director from BridgendKeye, 33, marketing manager from South West LondonDean, 31, team building host from FelthamPaul, 60, retired, EdinburghBailey, 36, sales manager from St AlbansDivarni, 29, musician from LondonMarried At First Sight UK 2025 couples
For more on the cast keep scrolling…
MAFS UK 2025 bridesNelly
Channel 4
Age: 30
From: Manchester
Job: Cosmetic dentist
Instagram: drnellyp
Married to: Steven
Known to her friends as Nelly, she has made a name for herself at one of Manchester’s leading dental clinics. Her ambition doesn’t stop at work either. Outspoken, confident, and full of warmth, Nelly isn’t afraid to say what others are thinking and is fiercely loyal to the people she cares about.
After being single for a year, Nelly has taken the time to focus on herself, but now she’s ready to leave that chapter behind and start searching for real love. Nelly knows her worth, she knows what she deserves, and she has no intention of settling for less. She is looking for someone who is strong, emotionally intelligent, and “not intimidated by a woman who knows exactly who she is.”
Our verdict: It sounds like Nelly has a very strong head on her shoulders and will need the right man to match this. Like Nelly, dad-of-two Steven is hardworking and super successful in his field, so they definitely have this in common. Whether there’s a romantic connection we’ll have to wait and see…
Anita
Channel 4
Age: 54
From: Durham
Job: Operations manager
Instagram: anitabarker12
Married to: Paul
Anita is a proud mum-of-two and a grandmother to three. Family means everything to Anita. After losing her mother, her job and then facing the breakdown of a 17-year relationship all in the space of six weeks, Anita decided to make a change and start doing all the things she’s always wanted to, including fire eating, helicopter flying lessons and solo trips to Ibiza. Now divorced, she’s looking for a man who is just as adventurous as she is and hopes the experts will find her a daring silver fox.
Our verdict: Based on her profile, we put Anita with Paul – and it’s a match! The duo have a lot in common, and their maturity could mean they approach the experiment more seriously, potentially leading to something more long-term.
Rebecca
Channel 4
Age: 32
From: Liverpool
Job: Aesthetics nurse and clinic owner
Instagram: bec.fen
Level-headed business woman Rebecca decided to become her own boss in the world of aesthetics. She’s mum to her three-year-old Cockapoo, Dotty and is gym obsessed. She calls herself a “girl boss” and believes she can achieve anything she sets her mind to.
After a broken engagement and a whirlwind romance, Rebecca has been single for over a year. Now, she’s looking for a man who can take control and allow her to be her true fiery an independent self.
Our verdict: It looks like she could have her love of fitness in common with personal trainer Joe, but will this be enough for the matchmakers to put them together? She also started her own business, similar to Bailey. We’ll have to wait and see who the experts match her with.
Julia-Ruth
Channel 4
Age: 29
From: New Zealand
Job: professional Dancer
Instagram: julee_aaah
Married to: Divarni
Originally from South Africa, Julia-Ruth calls New Zealand and the UK home. Her early life came with challenges, including being adopted at 16 by her sister, who stepped in as a strong support system and gave her the foundation she needed.
Now thriving as a professional dancer, Julia-Ruth is open to whatever life throws her way. She’s no stranger to reality TV – she once found love on a show, but the relationship didn’t last. This time around, she’s hoping to find something real and lasting.
Having been single for the past two years, Julia-Ruth admits she’s had a habit of choosing the wrong type of man. After a few tough relationships, she’s ready to break the cycle and is turning to the experts for help finding someone who is grounded, driven, and above all, empathetic.
Our verdict: We guessed correctly that the experts would match Julia-Ruth and Divarni. Not only did we think they look good together, but they both have a passion for the arts – Julia is a dancer and he’s a musician. But, will this lead to everlasting love?
Leah
Channel 4
Age: 35
From: Liverpool
Job: Business Owner
Instagram: lmt________
Leah is close to her family and loves living life to the fullest, enjoying sports and travel without taking herself too seriously. She’s worked hard to build her successful businesses and is grateful for the journey.
After dating men without ever feeling sparks, Leah realised at 25 that she’s attracted to women. Now, she’s hoping the experts can help her find a fun, spontaneous woman who wakes up smiling and loves to laugh. Leah also hopes her future partner will fit seamlessly into her family, just like she would in theirs.
Our verdict: Chilled Leah and outspoken Leigh could be just what each other need. We’ll have to wait for their wedding day to see whether sparks fly on their first meeting. Fingers crossed.
Maeve
Channel 4
Age: 29
From: Newcastle
Job: Aesthetics Practitioner
Instagram: maevemathieson
Once known as a bit of a troublemaker, Maeve often clashed with her parents over boys, but those days are behind her. Now a proud mum to son Archie, she’s grown into a strong, self-assured woman who knows what she wants.
Maeve is no longer settling for someone who won’t put in effort and isn’t the type of woman to blindly agree with a man. She’s ready for a mature relationship and is hoping the experts can help her lower her guard while still staying true to herself.
Our verdict: We initially thought that Maeve would be good match for Dean, but now that he’s married off, he’s a no-go. Both Maeve and Joe have had their fun in the past and are now ready to settle down. Could this bring them together?
Grace
Channel 4
Age: 31
From: Norwich
Job: Midwife in mental health services
Instagram: _geelaw
Married to: Ashley
Grace is quick with a joke and believes her sharp sense of humour often leaves men feeling intimidated. After a string of dating disasters, including getting a taxi driver to voice note a date about how bad it was, she’s more than ready for something real.
Stuck in a cycle of situationships, Grace hasn’t had a proper relationship since 2023. She’s looking for a tall, dark, and handsome man who’s confident, independent, and can keep up with her wit.
Our verdict: Based on her sense of humour, we thought that Grace and Steven could be a good match. She said that her wittiness had put men off in the past, but he was specifically looking for someone with some craic and energy which seemed like a perfect match. But, judging by a teaser for their wedding day, we’re not too sure now. In the clip, Grace can been seen crying because she doesn’t fancy Ashleigh. Will they be able to come back from this?
Leigh
Channel 4
Age: 30
From: Romford
Job: NHS Clinical Coder
Leigh is a self-proclaimed girly-girl who loves getting glam, but she’s also fiery, outspoken, and not afraid to stand her ground.
Single for a year and fed up with dating apps, Leigh is done with the games. After a broken engagement shattered her confidence, she’s now back stronger and ready for real love. She’s looking for someone ambitious, upbeat, and with just the right amount of dominance to match her energy.
Our verdict: While she’s looking for a dominant woman, Leah’s calmness could be just what Leigh needs to relax her.
Sarah
Channel 4
Age: 31
From: Aberdeen
Job: Recruitment consultant
Instagram: sarahgillanders_x
Married to: Dean
Sarah’s convinced there are no eligible bachelors left in her hometown, and if there are, she’s already met or dated them.
Since losing her mum, she’s wanted to make her proud by settling down with the nicest guy in the world. With friends getting married around her and her dad rooting for her (approval pending), Sarah is ready to find “the one.”
Our verdict: Things aren’t looking too promising for Sarah and Dean. Sarah said that she was looking for the “nicest” guy after dating lots of bad boys. But she admitted that she doesn’t fancy Dean on their wedding day and felt overwhelmed by his rapping. However, Dean has hinted that things “change” massively for them…
MAFS UK 2025 groomsDavide
Channel 4
Age: 33
From: Portugal
Job: Cabin crew
Instagram: daveanica
Married to: Keye
Originally from Portugal but raised in Paris, Davide credits his romantic nature to growing up in the city of love. After a planned 2025 wedding fell apart, he was left heartbroken, but not defeated.
Now ready to find his future husband, Davide is looking for someone kind, handsome, romantic, and most importantly, a fellow cat lover. He’s hoping the experts can help him find the perfect match.
Our verdict: Davide and Keye are both 33 and share similar past relationship experiences, which could help them navigate any challenges that arise. Hopefully, they’ll also find connection through more positive shared moments along the way.
Joe
Channel 4
Age: 31
From: Huddersfield
Job: Personal trainer
Instagram: joe_andthegym
Huddersfield lad Joe spent most of his twenties travelling the world, collecting passport stamps, and girls’ numbers. He admits he once prioritised partying over real connections, but a heart-to-heart with his mum made him rethink everything.
Now ready to settle down, Joe is facing the Married at First Sight UK experiment head-on. He’s looking for a fun-loving woman who can match his energy and help him break old habits for good.
Our verdict: Both Joe and Maeve have been open about their fun pasts, which could make them a great match – they seem to share a similar outlook on life and may understand each other in ways others wouldn’t.
Steven
Channel 4
Age: 34
From: Essex
Job: Investment banking manager
Instagram: stevespringett4
Married to: Nelly
Cheeky Essex lad Steven is hard to miss thanks to his height and quick wit. A dad of two, he juggles a high-pressure job in investment banking with passions for writing, acting, and football.
Single for over a year, he’s focused on his kids and career – but now he’s ready to find the love of his life. Steven’s looking for a confident, bubbly woman who’ll challenge him and keep him on his toes. He’s hoping the experts can help him finally find lasting love and stability.
Our verdict: We can see Nelly and Steven joking all the way off into the sunset together…
Ashley
Channel 4
Age: 35
From: Bridgend
Job: Operations director
Married to: Grace
At 35, father-of-one Ashley has packed plenty into life – from working around the world in marine construction to adventuring outdoors with rugby, surfing, and camping. But he’s ready to stop doing it all solo.
After a string of relationships (including one with a former Miss Universe), Ashley’s hoping his next date will be his last. He’s asked the experts to find him a gym-loving, pub-ready woman with blonde hair, bright eyes, and a great smile.
Our verdict: Based on their wedding day clip, we’re worried that Grace and Ashley won’t be able to come back from her not fancying him. Hopefully they’ll be able to work through it and the attraction will grow.
Related StoriesKeye
Channel 4
Age: 33
From: South West London
Job: Marketing manager
Instagram: keyeluke
Married to: Davide
Keye works in a high-pressure industry and enjoys the finer things in life, but he’s now on a journey of self-discovery. And it all starts with finding the man of his dreams – Davide, is that you?
Previously married, Keye hasn’t had a serious relationship since 2018. He’s hoping the experts can match him with someone confident, well-groomed, and ready to care for him the way he’s ready to care for someone else.
Our verdict: Given their similar life experiences, we think Keye and Davide could be the perfect match. We sure hope they can make it to final vows.
Dean
Channel 4
Age: 31
From: Feltham
Job: Team building host
Instagram: vary_dean
Married to: Sarah
Hopeless romantic Dean once flew to Venice for a first date, and he’s still chasing that fairytale love like the one his parents share.
Known for his positivity and charm, Dean has grown from shy to self-assured thanks to careers in comedy, magic, darts, and more.
Single for a year after being told he “wasn’t the one,” he’s now ready to meet his soul mate, who he describes as a fun-loving woman who shares his sense of humour and zest for life.
Our verdict: We understand why the experts matched him and Sarah, but we hope that his grand gestures don’t start to put her off.
Paul
Channel 4
Age: 60
From: Edinburgh
Job: Retired
Instagram: paul.richo_
Married to: Anita
Scottish-born Paul moved to Bath at 18 and hasn’t looked back. A lively dad of three, he’s ready to take a chance on love again and live life to the fullest.
Since divorcing in 2011, Paul’s mostly stuck to first dates on dating apps. Now, he’s hoping the experts will find him an outgoing woman who shares his zest for life and hobbies.
Our verdict: With a lot of life experience behind them and the shared desire to make the most of their lives, Anita and Paul could really have something good. We wish them the best on their MAFS journey.
Bailey
Channel 4
Age: 36
From: St Albans
Job: Sales Manager
Instagram: bigbearbai
Bailey grew up as the man of the house without a father figure. After moving to Brighton eight years ago, he started a micro-brewery and enjoys festivals, meditation, and lazy Sundays at the pub.
Proud dad to a three-year-old daughter, Bailey has been single for a year and is looking for a kind, family-focused woman who can match his energy and be a positive role model for his child.
Our verdict: We don’t know who he’ll be matched with, but Bailey and Rebecca could connect over their shared business acumen.
Divarni
Channel 4
Age:29
From: London
Job: Musician
Instagram: divarnigrocebalogun
Married to: Julia Ruth
Ladies’ man and dad-of-one Divarni is a talented poet who loves Marvel movies and has a charming, playful side.
Though he’s attracted plenty of partners, nothing has stuck. Single for two years, he’s hoping the experts find him a quirky, goal-driven, artistic woman with a big smile and kind eyes.
Verdict: Julia-Ruth and Divarni are both in the entertainment industry and look very good together, but judging by the trailer it looks like there could be a little tension between them. We hope they can move past it.
Who else should be matched on Married At First Sight UK 2025?
Below are all the couples we think should be coupled up, based on the singles whose significant other hasn’t been revealed yet:
Maeve and Joe Rebecca and Bailey Leigh and Leah
Married At First Sight UK 2025 starts on E4 on Sunday 21st September at 9pm.
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