Married At First Sight season 18 is slated to premiere on October 15, 2024, on Lifetime. The makers have recently revealed the names of the 10 Chicago-based singles who will be marrying perfect strangers this season. Married At First Sight is a long-running unscripted series in which relationship experts pair up strangers and have them legally marry upon their first meeting.
Season 17 of MAFS saw only one marriage ending on a honeymoon. Becca Haley and Austin Reed was the only couple who said "yes" on the Decision Day. The two reportedly split up the very next day.
Married at First Sight's season 18 will introduce viewers to ten contestants, each with unique backgrounds and motivations, all united to finding lasting love through an unconventional and daring experiment. Following the disappointing outcomes of season 17, the stakes are high and all eyes will be on these Chicago-based singles as they navigate the challenges of budding relationships.
Meet the couples of Married At First Sight season 18
Emem and Ikechi
Ikechi, 41, had met with the show's experts in Houston in 2020. According to her biography on Lifetime website, Ikechi hopes that this season of MAFS can finally connect him with his soulmate. His career led him to Chicago, and he believes this move could be fortuitous. Ikechi has dedicated time to understanding himself and what he desires in a partner.
Meanwhile, 34-year-old Emem feels grounded in her professional life and is ready to explore the personal side. She is looking for a partner and is excited to begin the next chapter of her life with someone special. She believes that conventional dating would waste her time, making MAFS a very appealing option for her.
David and Michelle
David, 35, is inspired by his parents' enduring marriage, and he hopes the MAFS experiment will help him find true love. His past relationships and personal growth have prepared him for the commitment of marriage. With a sense of self-contentment and confidence, David looks forward to expanding his horizons through the guidance of relationship experts and forming a fulfilling relationship.
Michelle, 38, has been single for six years. Michelle is certain that she is ready for marriage. The MAFS experiment offers her a path to finding her soulmate and possibly a future family, given her openness to having children or considering adoption or fostering due to her age.
Madison and Allen
Allen, 35, is genuine, vulnerable, and strongly committed to making relationships work. These characteristics make him an enthusiastic candidate for the MAFS process. He hopes this experiment will result in him finding a wife.
Madison, 29, has been single for two and a half years. She's now approaching 30 with newfound self-awareness. She sees MAFS as a means to avoid the pitfalls of traditional dating and find her soulmate. Madison is prepared to embark on this new adventure and start the next phase of her life with a partner.
Camille and Thomas
Thomas, 42, has witnessed the joy that marriage brings to his twin, which has motivated him to overcome his commitment issues. His previous relationship, which lasted nine years, ended due to his hesitation to commit. Having focused on personal growth, Thomas now views the MAFS experience as a way to leap into marriage without overthinking.
Camille, 32, has a stable career and long-term planning in mind; she is ready to leave her independent days behind. As a fan of the show, she trusts the experts to navigate her through this process and is hopeful of finding lasting love through this unconventional approach.
Juan and Karla
Juan, 36, feels that his good looks often lead women to see him superficially. The MAFS process appeals to him as it focuses on his character. He is ready for a marriage based on a deep connection that goes beyond appearances.
Karla, 33, has worked hard to heal unhealthy behaviors. She is now moving forward with a positive and loving mindset. She is searching for a partner who complements her well and with whom she can build a happy family.
Don't miss the drama, romance, and surprises as Married at First Sight heads back to Chicago for its season 18! Tune in to the season premiere on Tuesday, October 15 at 8/7c, only on Lifetime.