
The popular reality series Married at First Sight (MAFS) has garnered attention not only for its unique premise but also for its presence of alcohol during therapy sessions. Currently in its 18th season, the show features couples who are at a crucial crossroads, deciding whether to remain married or seek divorce after just weeks of partnership with strangers. As of now, all couples except one remain together, but tensions are rising, particularly for Ikechi Ojoré and Emem Obot, who face challenges following a tumultuous honeymoon.
This season is marked by scandals, particularly the complicated dynamics involving Michelle Tomblin and her husband, David Trimble. Michelle’s frustration stems from David’s questionable living conditions, his communication skills, and an infidelity incident where he accidentally messaged her instead of another woman. This blunder has opened up a deeper scandal that connects to Allen Slovick and his wife, Madison Myers, as Michelle suspects the message was intended for Madison. The backdrop of these conflicts is accompanied by a notable prevalence of alcohol consumption, both during therapy sessions and social occasions throughout the season.
Alcohol Presence During MAFS Therapy Sessions
A Surprisingly Frequent Occurrence

It has become a common sight to see alcohol at therapy sessions conducted by MAFS experts, where champagne flows freely. This practice raises concerns, as engaging in emotional and critical discussions while under the influence is not conducive to effective therapy. The participation of the experts in this drinking culture is alarming, especially given the myriad of issues that cast members face.
The show has seen instances where alcohol exacerbates existing problems. For example, Allen Slovick’s choice to drink with Madison led to a troubling incident where he drove home intoxicated—a situation that both generated conflict and reflects poorly on the guidance purportedly being provided by the experts.
Boozy Culture Among The MAFS Cast
Regular Indulgence and Its Consequences

Beyond therapy sessions, the cast participates in frequent outings filled with alcohol, often unnoticed by viewers. In one week alone, Madison ventured out drinking three times, sometimes returning home well past 1 a.m.without her husband. This kind of behavior often muddles the cast’s priorities and detracts from the core intention of their journey.
Alcohol appears not only at individual therapy sessions but also at group events, where it frequently leads to chaotic encounters and conflicts. This drinking culture is detrimental in that it clouds judgment and can escalate tensions within already fragile relationships.
The Impact of Alcohol on Relationship Outcomes
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Past MAFS seasons reveal troubling patterns regarding alcohol consumption and its effects on marriages. For instance, in season 14, Lindsey Georgoulis’s excessive drinking on her wedding day ultimately caused significant discord in her relationship with Mark Maher. It culminated in her erratic behavior during a group bowling outing, where alcohol contributed to a heated confrontation with another cast member, Katina Goode.
“Have another drink.”
Season 17 portrayed Emily Balch as a party enthusiast whose drinking habits influenced her interactions with her husband. Throughout the honeymoon, she encouraged her husband to drink excessively, which fostered a culture of alcohol consumption that often pitted couples against each other.
The drinking culture woven throughout Married at First Sight raises critical questions about the show’s low success rate. From the experts’ casual drinking during supposedly therapeutic sessions to the cast’s ongoing alcohol indulgence, it seems alcohol plays a significant role in creating complications that contribute to their challenges. As the season unfolds, viewers are left to wonder how this persistent drinking culture will affect the future of these relationships.
Catch new episodes of Married At First Sight on Tuesdays at 8 p.m. EST on Lifetime.
Source: Lifetime/YouTube | Additional insights: Screen Rant
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