MAFS’ Steven hits back at show after it’s revealed he was using a dating app during marriage to Nelly

MAFS’ Steven Hits Back at Show After It’s Revealed He Was Using a Dating App During Marriage to Nelly

In a dramatic twist on Married at First Sight UK, groom Steven Springett has hit back at the show following claims that he was active on a dating app while still married to his on-screen wife, Nelly Patel. The allegations came to light during the homestay stage of the experiment, when one of Nelly’s friends confronted him with evidence that his profile was live on a dating platform.

The confrontation took viewers by surprise as Nelly’s friend directly questioned Steven about the appropriateness of his actions, given that he was meant to be committed to his new wife. During the tense exchange, she showed him a phone displaying his dating app profile, prompting an awkward silence before Steven attempted to defend himself. The moment quickly spread across social media, igniting discussions among fans of the show.

Steven later responded to the situation, claiming that his actions were being taken out of context. He explained that by the time the dating app issue arose, his relationship with Nelly was already breaking down. According to him, much of what viewers saw had been heavily edited to create drama and to fit a particular storyline that would entertain audiences.

In his words, the experiment had already reached a point where he was “back to normal life” and no longer emotionally invested in the marriage. He insisted that the portrayal made him look worse than the reality of what was happening off-camera. Steven’s comments appeared to suggest that the show manipulated timelines to maximise the impact of the revelation.

Nelly, however, seemed unconvinced. She posted a playful yet pointed message on Instagram soon after the episode aired, captioned “Since he thinks I was born yesterday,” accompanied by a humorous photo. Fans interpreted the post as a subtle dig at Steven and a confirmation that she felt deceived by his behaviour both during and after filming.

Viewers of Married at First Sight UK have largely sided with Nelly, expressing disappointment in Steven’s conduct and accusing him of disrespecting the commitment the experiment demanded. Many argued that even if the marriage had been struggling, it was inappropriate to engage with dating apps before officially ending things. Others defended Steven, saying the pressure of reality television can distort behaviour and judgment.

The situation has added more tension to what has already been a controversial season of the show. Steven’s behaviour in previous episodes, including moments of defensiveness and dismissive remarks towards Nelly, had already raised eyebrows. This latest development further cements his reputation as one of the season’s most divisive participants.

As the series progresses, fans are eager to see how the couple’s journey concludes and whether Steven’s explanations will soften public opinion. For now, his response has only deepened the conversation about authenticity, editing, and accountability in reality TV relationships.