Married at First Sight Australia viewers were left gobsmacked by an unexpected plot twist, exclaiming “what are the chances” after a surprising revelation.
The popular reality show kicked off its 12th season on E4 on Monday (March 3), introducing a new group of hopeful singles ready to take part in the renowned matchmaking experiment with the aim of finding their perfect partner.
The first couple to be paired by relationship experts Mel Schilling, Alessandra Rampolla and John Aiken were Paul and Carina, both hailing from Western Australia.
Paul, a 30-year-old wellness advisor, and Carina, a 31-year-old digital marketing manager, were thought to have “huge potential” by the experts due to their shared traditional values, European heritage and family-oriented nature.
Viewers were equally thrilled with the match, expressing their delight as Carina’s family showed their happiness upon meeting Paul at the altar.
However, the mood shifted dramatically post-ceremony when Carina privately informed the producers that she already knew Paul, and asked for a “different guy”, reports OK!
“Is there another option? I know him, can you believe that?” she exclaimed.
Carina revealed that they had been matched on a dating app eight months prior and had even gone on a hiking date together. However, things didn’t progress further as Paul never contacted her again after their meet-up.
“He ghosted me. Knowing that we’ve crossed paths, I’m not going to lie, I’m so disappointed. I wanted to go into this not knowing the person. The world is so small, it’s only me that it would happen to,” Carina lamented.
On the flip side, Paul was chuffed to see Carina again, recalling how he thought it was a “massive loss” when he lost touch with her previously.
As the unexpected reunion unfolded on the show, MAFS fans were quick to express their astonishment on X (formerly known as Twitter).
“This plot twist with Carina and Paul is absolutely a proper madness,” tweeted one viewer, while another posted: “Well that’s a hell of a twist… Carina and Paul have dated.”
“Ok, with that plot twist, Carina and Paul have already played with my heart,” shared a third, and a fourth exclaimed: “Carina and Paul know each other! I’m shocked! I was cheering them on and saying how good they look together – but he ghosted her months ago! Wow. Did not expect this.”
“What are the odds of Carina and Paul being put together without production knowing the whole story,” speculated another fan.
Despite the initial shock, Carina seemed to move beyond their history, sharing a passionate kiss with Paul at the conclusion of their wedding reception, and confessing: “I’m smitten.” Will Carina and Paul last?
Married at First Sight Australia airs Monday to Thursday on E4 at 9pm