WARNING: This article mentions domestic violence
This week, 'MAFS Australia' sparked controversy as NSW Police launched an investigation into the show and groom Paul Antoine for punching a wall during filming.
A police insider told Sky News that NSW authorities had been keeping an eye on the show but decided to step things up after Paul’s actions, escalating it to the Deputy Commissioner.
On the show, Carina accepted Paul’s tearful apology in front of all the other castmates at Wednesday night’s dinner party, and she later claimed she was “surprised” about the investigation.
“At the end of the day, I felt safe, and it was up to me essentially,” she told MAFS Funny’s Josh.
“He was banned from alcohol for the rest of the series, they gave him therapy sessions every Saturday morning, so there were a lot of things that had to come into place for it to be a safe environment.”
“He didn’t give me any signs. I’m sorry, he is a good human.”
“I’m surprised that it’s gotten to this point. there’s a bit of backstory behind what happened, maybe I shouldn’t have said what I said…”
However, Josh said no matter what she said in that Uber, “it doesn’t justify” the aggression.
“I was not scared,” she confirmed again.
ICYMI - The incident came to light in Wednesday night’s episode when Paul’s on-screen wife Carina, revealed off-camera that he’d lashed out after a heated argument.
It’s all said to have started when Carina admitted she’d slept with an anonymous rapper after hearing his song in an Uber on an unfilmed night out with fellow contestants Rhi and Jeff.
Later, Carina said things escalated quickly, with Paul becoming agitated over “not being given space” while she tried to amend the situation and punching a wall before leaving their apartment and not returning that night.
“It’s not something I would want to put up with, especially if I’m going into a lifetime with this person,” she said, but added that she “wasn’t scared” of him.
However, the decision to keep him on the show sparked backlash, leading to police involvement.
“I'm not even joking, I think the show has a great opportunity to show what should be done in these cases and get Paul out,” one person said on X.
“Domestic violence isn’t entertainment. We have reached a new low in Australian TV,” said another.
A third asked: “Why didn’t the experts have him removed immediately?”
Police released a statement, saying: “The matter has been referred to officers from South Sydney Police Area Command, who have commenced an investigation.”
“As the investigation is current, police will not be making any further comment in relation to the matter.”
As for Channel Nine and production company Endemol Shine, they maintain that they take contestant welfare very seriously.
As reported by the Sydney Morning Herald, a spokesperson said: “All participants have access to the show psychologist and welfare resources during filming, during broadcast and once the program has ended.”
“We would always co-operate with authorities in any investigation.”
Well, I guess we’ll have to see what the experts have to say when it comes to Carina and Paul’s time on the couch at the next commitment ceremony on Monday.
From what we’ve seen from the teaser, they won’t be taking it lightly.
If you or someone you know is struggling, remember it’s always okay to talk and reach out for help.
Are You OK? - free and confidential 24/7 support and information for anyone experiencing family violence or if you are worried about someone else.
Call 0800 456 450 or live chat with a trained counsellor on the website.
Safe to Talk - free and confidential helpline for support and information about sexual violence. Call 0800 044 334, text 4334 or email support@safetotalk.nz
Women’s Refuge - 24-hour advocacy and accommodation for women and their children experiencing family violence. Call 0800 733 843 (0800 REFUGE) or get support through live chat on the website.
Change is Possible - anonymous 24/7 help for men using violence or concerned about their behaviour. Free call 0800 456 450 or live chat with a counsellor on the website.
Remember, in an emergency to call 111.
