PICTURE: SHOWMAX/ TSHEPO MIYA
Married at First Sight Mzansi has been on air for eight weeks, and the drama hasn’t let up. Every week, something unexpected happens that leaves viewers stunned and the most explosive moments are still on the way.
This season introduces a brand-new panel of experts and singles who have agreed to marry complete strangers. The couples taking part in this daring social experiment are Palesa Mphaki and Tshepo Miya, Makoto Phumodi and Nkuleleko Mahlangu, Themba Khosa and Nelisa Ntabeni, and Portia Baloyi and Bongani Luvalo.
Now legally married, the couples are navigating married life in real time – and it’s been a rollercoaster. Viewers have watched them face everything from disapproving families and unresolved baby mama drama to growing intimacy issues. It’s been raw, real, and at times, very uncomfortable.
In the latest episode, emotions ran high. We learned about the heartbreaking passing of Portia’s father, tensions between Tshepo and Makoto reached a boiling point, and things got even messier between Themba and Nelisa.
We recently caught up with Tshepo, who gave us the tea on his time on the show, his wife and more.
What made you decide to join the show?
I joined the show because my traditional way of starting relationships had not worked and I thought this would be an ideal way to see what is out there for me.
What went through your mind when you first saw Palesa?
There were so many things that went through my mind; however, I was hopeful.
How did you prepare yourself mentally for this experiment?
One can never be fully prepared for such an experiment, you need to take it as it comes, but I did have a long conversation with my therapist ahead of time just to make sure that I am doing this.
What advice did your therapist give you?
My therapist advised me that shows like this will bring about different people and you should always remember what you can be in control of and leave the things you cannot control.
When did you first notice cracks in your marriage?
The cracks in my marriage began during the honeymoon phase when my wife asked me not to communicate directly with women in production, and said I should rather redirect them to her for any information or requirements. I found that strange as we were still getting to know each other and that kind of behaviour did raise some eyebrows.
Also see: Married At First Sight’s Palesa Mphaki shares her experience