Film and TV

Married at First Sight UK will not return. Channel 4 announced the decision on Thursday after two reviews that followed a BBC Panorama investigation. In the programme, broadcast in May, two women alleged they were raped during filming. A third woman alleged she was subjected to a non-consensual sex act. According to the BBC, the men involved deny all the allegations. The format pairs single people who "marry" strangers they meet for the first time on their wedding day. The marriages are not legally binding. The BBC reported that the show was one of Channel 4's biggest hits, with audiences often topping three million. After Panorama aired, Channel 4 removed every episode from its streaming and linear services, the Guardian reported. A major sponsor also pulled out, according to the BBC. A review led by former BBC One controller Lorraine Heggessey found the show's safeguards were of a high standard. It said the show could reasonably continue with a stronger welfare framework and changes to the format. It also found that some elements could put implicit pressure on contributors to be intimate. Her suggestions included constantly monitored CCTV in all areas of the apartments, panic buttons and "safe words". A second review, by law firm Clyde & Co, found the welfare protocols complied with Ofcom's broadcasting…

Tanzanian stage comedian Joseph Job, better known as JJ Ephraim, says there are too few live shows. He told Mwananchi this is the biggest problem in his work right now. "These days shows have become few, so leaders should look at how to bring back the system as it was before," he said, according to the Tanzanian outlet. Ephraim performs with the comedy group Cheka Tu. He started his career in 2024, after the group launched a search for comedy talent. He said joining Cheka Tu made him known to the public and earned him respect in the community. It also brought him advertising deals that let him use his fame in other business ventures. He said some fans have grown so close that he treats them like family. Asked whether stage comedy pays the bills, he said it depends on the artist. Some live on their art alone, while others rely on extra deals. Even if the…