Love & relationship coach Dr Lurve has reportedly been selected as the new expert for Married at First Sight (MAFS) 2027, alongside veteran experts John Aiken and Alessandra Rampolla.
Daily Mail has reported that Dr Lurve, whose real name is Brigitte Zonta filling the shoes left by the late Mel Schilling on the panel for the 14th season.
The publication reported that Dr Lurve was travelling through Europe when she received the call and cut her trip short to return for filming.
One source told Daily Mail that Dr Lurve wouldn’t be afraid to confront the contestants over their bad behaviour, and calls them out when needed, while also taking the time to understand their actions.
“She can explain why somebody keeps repeating the same destructive pattern without making it sound like a lecture,” the insider said.
“She is also quick, funny and very comfortable talking about subjects other people might avoid. For a show like MAFS, that combination is enormously valuable.”
Another said that the new expert will be navigating her own path, rather than trying to replicate what Mel brought to the show.
“No one can replace Mel, and that is not what they are asking Dr Lurve to do,” the source said.
“She has her own voice, her own energy and her own way of connecting with people.
“She can be warm and entertaining, but she can also cut through the excuses when somebody is not being honest.”
Why former contestant Lucinda Light was ruled out for the MAFS relationship expert role
Rumours have been circulating for months that former MAFS contestant Lucinda Light could be in the running. However, an insider told Daily Mail the producers ruled out the idea of any past participants joining the panel.
“The audience wants someone they can trust,” a source said. “They want experts who aren’t afraid to call out bad behaviour, challenge the participants and actually help the couples.”
“They’ve completely ruled out having a former participant like Lucinda Light join the panel,” the source revealed.
“They absolutely love Lucinda, but they don’t believe having a former bride as an expert fits the direction they’re taking.
“They’re looking for someone with professional authority who complements John and Alessandra — not someone who becomes part of the story.”
Stream MAFS on Channel 9 and 9Now.
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