John Aiken set to appear on a brand new season of MAFS airing next month

If you’ve been missing dramatic dinner parties, tumultuous love stories and of course, John Aiken, then fear not because Married At First Sight is coming back to Australian screens much earlier than anticipated. The New Zealand version of the beloved reality TV series is making its return after a five-year hiatus with a brand-new season streaming free for Aussie viewers on 9Now from June 2.

Relationship expert and reality TV icon John Aiken, who has appeared on every season of Married At First Sight Australia since its inception, has joined the show to help a new group of brides and grooms find love. He will be sitting on the couch alongside relationship and sex therapist Jo Robertson, who will offer participants “practical strategies and conversations about chemistry, intimacy and affection”.

RELATED:

• MAFS expert Mel Schilling's sad cancer battle update: 'Getting tough now'

• A new MAFS drama has kicked off after leaked texts and fans are divided: 'Trashy'

• MAFS star shocks with accidental X-rated detail in honeymoon snaps: 'Had to zoom in'

In a statement from Nine, John said he feels connected to New Zealand and its “diverse population” as he spent plenty of time growing up in the country and has been happily married to a Kiwi for 17 years.

“I’m excited to be a part of the fresh relaunch of MAFS NZ. After being involved for over a decade with the Australian version, I can now bring all of my lessons and insights to Kiwi singles looking for love,” he shared.

“MAFS NZ will have the similar mix of drama, love and relationship learning that the audience loves. I think those who tune in will really invest in the couples and watch with interest how they navigate all the challenges.”

What else do we know about the show?

In addition to having one less expert, the New Zealand series will have a significantly smaller group of participants. Only eight brides and grooms will be walking down the aisle, with their ages ranging from 26 to 37.

The four brides set to tie the knot are account manager/healing intuitive Madeleine, 37, content creator Samantha, 26, car sales representative Kara, 33, and marketing professional Stephanie, 31.

Meanwhile, the four grooms are auctioneer and business owner Michael, 36, brewer Piripi, 28, primary school teacher James, 31, and aviation officer Nathaniel, 30.

SHOP:

• The simple streaming device that means you never miss your favourite shows

• The sustainable razor that means 'less charging and less clutter'

• The 'game-changing' serum that helps clear acne: 'Magic in a bottle'

The show’s fourth season will only air three episodes a week compared to the Australian version which airs four, however, viewers can still expect “fiery drama and explosive love stories”.

Married At First Sight NZ premieres Sunday, June 2 at 4pm AEST on 9Now

Want the latest celebrity news? Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.