MAFS UK series 11: Your ultimate guide as filming takes place
It will air later in 2026
Thanks to couples like Nelly and Steven, Rebecca and Bailey and Abi and John, the 2025 series of Married At First Sight UK provided us with some serious drama, even if it wasn't the most successful of experiments!
With Abi and John the only couple to still be going strong one year on, filming for the 11th series is now upon us, as the experts match a whole new bunch of brides and grooms hoping to find love at first sight.
As we patiently count down the months to the new series, here's everything we know so far about MAFS UK 2026.
When is filming?
Filming for MAFS UK series 11 began in mid-February 2026.
When is it on TV?
There's no exact start date for the 2026 series of MAFS UK just yet, but it usually begins around Autumn time. The 2025 series kicked off on Sunday 21st September.
Who are the brides and grooms?
With filming taking place now, the 2026 cast is being kept a big secret - with the brides and grooms under strict instructions to keep off social media!
The cast will be announced closer to the start date.
Can I apply?
Unfortunaly applications for the 2026 series of MAFS UK closed in February, but you can register your interest for future series right here.
Will Mel Schilling be on MAFS UK?
Despite announcing her departure from the Australian series earlier this year, Mel Schilling was still due to appear on the UK version of the show.
However, in mid-March 2026, Mel gave a devastating update that she's been diagnosed with terminal cancer.
Sharing a photo of herself alongside her husband and daughter at Christmas time, Mel told her Instagram followers: 'In December 2023 I was diagnosed with colon cancer after a tumour the size of a lemon was discovered during a scan. “Terry,” as I called him, was successfully removed and I was initially given the all clear — that much many of you already know.
'Unfortunately, in late February 2024 during a routine scan, small nodules were discovered in my lungs. The cancer had metastasised and my world changed again in an instant. Over the past two years, while filming MAFS, I underwent 16 rounds of chemotherapy and was later told I was eligible for a groundbreaking clinical trial specific to my gene type, due to start in March 2026. Once again, my optimism soared that I might beat this thing.
'Over Christmas, however, I began experiencing blinding headaches and numbness down my right side. After many tests I was told the cancer had spread to the left side of my brain and, despite subsequent radiotherapy sessions, my oncology team have now told me there is nothing further they can do.
'Hearing those words changes everything.
'So that’s where I am now. My light is starting to fade — and quickly. But I am still here, still fighting, and surrounded by the most incredible love. Simple tasks have become incredibly difficult and I am relying on my beautiful family to look after me. I honestly don’t know how long I have left, but I do know I will fight to my last breath and will be surrounded by the love and support of my people.
'At the outset of this journey, so many of you sent the most wonderful messages of support. They have meant more than I can ever properly express and have helped shape the mindset I’ve needed to keep fighting. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart.
'If I could leave you with one thing, it would simply be this: if something doesn’t feel right, please get it checked out. It might just save your life.
'These two beside me are my everything.
'With love and gratitude, Mel'. (sic)
Who are the experts?
Charlene Douglas and Paul C Brunson will appear on series 11, alongside MAFS Australia expert John Aiken.
Following the news of Mel's diagnosis, E4 bosses released a statement where they revealed her close friend John would be stepping in for series 11.
The statement read: 'All of us at Channel 4 are immeasurably saddened by the news about Mel's health, and are sending all of our love and support to Mel and her family.
'Over five series of Married at First Sight UK, and twelve series of Married at First Sight Australia, Mel has become a hugely valued and much-loved part of the Channel 4 family; to many of us she is a friend as well as a colleague.
'Her wisdom, warmth, humour and kindness shine through, and these qualities mean that everyone involved in MAFS, from the producers and contributors, to the viewers, love and respect her as much as we do.
'MAFS UK is currently filming and, with Mel's blessing, her good friend and fellow MAFS Australia expert, John Aiken, has done us the great favour of stepping in for her for this series. If anyone would like support, please find some helpful organisations and a link to donate to Stand Up To Cancer in our bio.'
What channel is it on?
As ever, MAFS UK will air on E4.
How can I watch old series?
Past series of Married At First Sight UK are available to watch now on Channel 4's streaming service.
Now read:
MAFS expert Mel Schilling reveals terminal cancer diagnosis
MAFS All Stars: Here's who we'd love to see on Second Marriage at First Sight
Which MAFS UK couples are still together after the show