PICTURE: INSTAGRAM/ PALESA MPHAKI
Married At First Sight star, Palesa Mphaki, recently spilled the beans regarding her experience on the show.
The second season of Married At First Sight has had Mzansi glued to their screens, with some sharing their insights as they witness relationships being tested every week.
The show is set against the backdrop of four couples, namely Palesa Mphaki and Tshepo Miya, Makoto Phumodi and Nkuleleko Mahlangu, Themba Khosa and Nelisa Ntabeni, as well as Portia Baloyi and Bongani Luvalo.
Each of these couples have their own unique challenges, and have agreed to marry complete strangers chosen by relationship experts.
Palesa was paired with Tshepo, and their relationship has been tested by many unexpected revelations, including Tshepo’s interest in polygamy and Palesa’s suspicions of his infidelity.
In the last episode, other couples had an experience of being with their in-laws, except Tshepo and Palesa. Tshepo revealed that his mother said she is not comfortable with having Palesa in her house before the Miyas pay lobola for her.
Palesa shared that she joined the show “for the experience, to discover affection through an unorthodox approach”. When she met Tshepo at the altar, she admits to being “slightly shocked” by his appearance.
“I had said I wasn’t into super skinny guys, but I hadn’t anticipated meeting a pretty chubby dude. But looks aren’t everything, so I was still willing to give it a shot,” she said.
Watching herself on TV has been “peculiar”, but she’s grateful for the opportunity to reflect. She’s also getting used to public attention.
“People are beginning to take notice of me… I appreciate those who are bold enough to approach and acknowledge me. The recognition is gratifying.”
Palesa also shared that she learnt some hard truths on love and trust.
“Not everyone is completely honest in their actions and movements. It’s taught me the importance of setting healthy boundaries and standing up for myself while still being respectful.”
Her favourite journey to watch this season? Makoto and Nkululeko’s.
“There’s something incredibly compelling about focusing on those who are misunderstood or misjudged by society. Especially because I know the show is not scripted.”
X (formerly Twitter) users weighed in:
Palesa blocked Tshepo? Shame she’s just a girl😭😂 we all do that #MarriedAtFirstSightMzansi pic.twitter.com/VPufgy0chi
— Kgadi (@Princess_Kgadi) August 10, 2025
Tshepo hates confrontation because he lacks accountability. He is manipulative and always trying to make Palesa look like she’s an emotional wreck #MarriedAtFirstSightMzansi pic.twitter.com/Ocw12Yskpc
— Smittee 🥺 (@Ndzala_) August 10, 2025
#MarriedAtFirstSightMzansi Tshepo can’t even hide his excitement that Palesa missed the kotiza weekend, his facial expression’s while making that cocktail? pic.twitter.com/k2k55G1yir
— Andzani (@theyhateandz) August 10, 2025
Also see: Themba and Nelisa win hearts on Married At First Sight Season 2