E4 Married at First Sight UK expert Paul Brunson hits back at criticism during series debut

Married at First Sight got off to an interesting start as the brides and grooms-to-be met up separately for the first time. The hit E4 series returned to TV screens on Monday night (August 29) with a 90-minute special and as ever, the social experiment sees 16 singletons get married having never met each other before.

During the first episode, viewers were introduced to the singles for the first time as they enjoyed their own group hen and stag do's before tying the knot with a stranger.

The couples, who have been matched by experts Melanie Schilling, Paul C. Brunson and Charlene Douglas, will make a lifelong commitment to one another at a glamorous ceremony. Then over the series, which is this year set to run to 30 episodes, viewers will see the pairings getting to know each other as they head off on a honeymoon before moving in together.

READ MORE: E4 Married at First Sight UK viewers 'turn off' amid complaints moments into new series

There will be commitment ceremonies, where couples choose whether they want to stay in or leave the process. This will build up to a dramatic series finale with glossy vow renewals in which each couple must decide if they will recommit to their partner or go their separate ways for good.

The first episode saw the first two weddings of the series with Duka and Whitney, and Chanita and Jordan both tying the knot. Prior to seeing them walk down the aisle, fans found out a bit more about each person and saw Melanie, Paul and Charlene's reasons for pairing them.

But some of those watching at home were left unsure about the parings and began commenting on social media. And one post in particular caught the attention of professional matchmaker and Celebs Go Dating star Paul. @Contessgadabout