Who is regulating reality TV? Lessons from MAFS UK

Who is regulating reality TV? Lessons from MAFS UK

From Electoral Dysfunction by Sky News

May 22, 2026 · 47 min

About this episode

The episode discusses the regulation of reality TV in light of allegations against MAFS UK and explores political implications of upcoming by-elections.

Reality show Married At First Sight UK on Channel 4 is facing serious allegations this week, so Beth Rigby, Ruth Davidson, and Harriet Harman discuss whether more should be done to make reality TV safer – and if MPs ought to get involved. Plus, with three by-elections coming up, has Andy Burnham’s bid to return to Westminster thrown the constituency of Makerfield into chaos? And why might the North Sea oil reserves become a hot button issue for voters in Aberdeen South? For a full list of candidates standing in your area, visit the Electoral Commission website. Channel 4 was approached for comment. Got a question for the burner phone? WhatsApp 07934 200 444 or email electoraldysfunction@sky.uk . And if you didn't know, you can also watch Beth, Ruth, and Harriet on YouTube.

People in this episode

Host: Beth Rigby

Guests: Ruth Davidson, Harriet Harman

Topics covered

  • reality TV regulation
  • MAFS UK
  • political commentary
  • by-elections
  • North Sea oil reserves

Keywords

  • reality TV
  • MAFS UK
  • regulation
  • by-elections
  • politics
  • North Sea oil

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Channel 4

Places: Makerfield, North Sea, Aberdeen South

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