Two women who appeared on Channel 4's "Married at First Sight UK" have told the BBC they were raped by their on-screen husbands during filming. A third participant has alleged a non-consensual sex act. All three women stated that the show's production did not implement sufficient protective measures for participants.

The allegations emerged in a BBC Panorama report, which noted that Channel 4 was aware of some of these claims before the episodes aired. The relevant episodes had been available on the channel's streaming service. In response to the BBC's findings, Channel 4 announced on Monday afternoon that it had removed all episodes of "Married at First Sight UK" from its streaming and linear services, as well as the show's social media channels.

Reacting to the allegations, the chairwoman of a new creative industry watchdog described the format of "Married at First Sight UK" as inherently high-risk, suggesting that these risks were "certainly not being managed properly." Channel 4 had previously informed Panorama that it disputed the allegations, stating they were "wholly uncorroborated."

When approached by the BBC on Monday, Ian Katz, Channel 4's outgoing chief content officer, stated that he had not yet seen the Panorama documentary but acknowledged the "very serious allegations." He indicated that the broadcaster would respond after reviewing the program.

Shortly after the BBC published its story, Channel 4 released a statement confirming it had commissioned an external review into participant welfare on the show last month, prompted by the presentation of "serious allegations of wrongdoing." Lawyers representing CPL, the independent production company responsible for the UK version of the show, asserted that their welfare system is "gold standard and industry-leading" and that they acted appropriately in all reported cases.

A spokesperson for the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport commented that the allegations are "serious" and emphasized that all individuals working in or participating in television should be treated with "dignity and respect at all times." The spokesperson added that all allegations must be referred to the appropriate authorities for investigation, with full cooperation from those involved, to ensure high standards and accountability.

Ofcom, the UK's communications regulator, stated that broadcasters are obligated under their rules to exercise due care for the welfare of individuals who may be at risk of significant harm from participating in a program. The regulator noted Channel 4's launch of an external review into contributor care for "MAFS UK" and indicated that Ofcom awaits its findings before conducting its own review.

The revelations raise significant questions about participant safety and the duty of care provided by production companies and broadcasters in reality television. The swift removal of episodes and the commissioning of an external review suggest a serious response from Channel 4, though the investigation by Ofcom and the findings of the independent review will be crucial in determining future protocols for such programs.