Lifetime relationship docu-series ‘Married at First Sight’ is casting in Bucks County and Philadelphia
By Samantha Bambino
The Times
For all of you single folks out there, you know the struggle modern-day dating has become. Every week, it seems we’re unwittingly showered with commercials and pop-up ads promoting a new app that will help us find “the one.” It’s exhausting.
But what if there was a way to bypass all of that nonsense, to sprint past all of the frogs and get right to the prince/princess? Well, there is … as long as you’re willing to share your quest for love with all of America.
As we speak, producers from the popular Lifetime series Married at First Sight are seeking eligible singles ages 26–40 in the Bucks County and Philadelphia areas to appear on an upcoming season of the one-of-a-kind documentary.
In case you’re unfamiliar, the show chronicles the journeys of six individuals who put their trust in a panel of relationship experts to help them find their perfect match. The catch? They don’t know who their potential soulmate is until they’re standing with them at the altar. Seems crazy right? Not necessarily.
According to expert Dr. Jessica Griffin, a clinical and forensic psychologist who boasts more than 15 years working with couples and families, the concept of Married at First Sight is based on the longtime practice of arranged marriages, which various cultures have utilized for centuries.
Rather than exploit participants and highlight fights like so many reality programs, she explained the show is meant to help people find love through a scientific matchmaking process. Out of a pool of thousands of applicants, she and her fellow experts Dr. Pepper Schwartz and Pastor Calvin Roberson attempt to narrow the pool down through an extensive questionnaire. All applicants hail from one area each season to eliminate the obstacle of a long distance relationship.
A number of factors are taken into consideration, including family values, religion, social groups and relationship history. Psychological evaluations and background checks are conducted, as well as interviews with applicants’ family and friends, who are able to provide further insight into their loved one’s partner preferences.
After all of this information is gathered and analyzed, the experts begin to determine potential couples. Griffin stressed that although someone could be the whole package, their values may not add up with the other candidates. The ultimate goal is to have both individuals complement rather than mirror or conflict with each other.
“The idea is that couples bring out the best in us, not the worst,” she said.
For several weeks, the experts work with each participant separately, providing consultation and helping them reach certain emotional milestones in this accelerated process. Griffin explained eight weeks on the show is the equivalent to a one-year relationship.
Throughout this first phase, which includes dress and ring shopping, the participants are entirely clueless as to whom their expert chose as their soon-to-be spouse. It’s not until the bride steps up to the altar that the two see each other for the first time.
“We’re holding our breath,” Griffin said of when they finally meet.
After the “I do’s” are said, the three pairs are united in legally binding marriages. The documentary continues to follow the couples until the eight-week mark, which is when they must decide if they want to work on the relationship or call it quits. Last season, two of the three stayed together. While the experts do what they can to find compatible matches, Griffin admitted it’s not a perfect system. They simply can’t predict chemistry or help participants every step of the way.
“It’s ultimately up to the couples to do the work,” she said.
Even for those who don’t stay together, Griffin said Married at First Sight can be used as a learning experience. Participants are able to hone communication skills while gaining insight into what they’re truly looking for in a partner. When the right guy/girl comes around, they’ll be prepared.
Applications will be accepted through early to mid June from local singles ages 26–40. Candidates must be individuals looking for a serious commitment, not just 15 minutes of fame on television. They should have an openness to feedback and willingness to have their lives highlighted on a national platform. To be considered for Married at First Sight, visit MAFSPhilly.castingcrane.com to complete an online application. Previous seasons can be viewed at mylifetime.com/shows/married-at-first-sight. ••
Samantha Bambino can be reached at sbambino@newspapermediagroup.com
