Married at First Sight’s twelfth season will feature some of the show’s hottest cast members to date when it returns to screens next year.
And now, Daily Mail Australia can exclusively reveal England born groom Billy Belcher has signed on to appear on the Channel Nine dating show.
The 31-year-old tattooed larrikin, who is originally from England, was spotted on set in Sydney earlier this month.
Producers introduced Billy at the bucks party last minute, adding an extra dash of excitement to the gathering.
An insider told Daily Mail Australia, ‘Billy is a top bloke, full of personality and style. We knew he would bring something unique to the show.’
Billy, an English plasterer by trade, is set to be one of ten grooms walking down the aisle on MAFS in 2025.
His muscular physique and eye-catching tattoos, including a serene Buddha face surrounded by intricate floral patterns on his chest, are sure to make an impression on viewers.
His addition to the cast comes as the show looks to double down on its massive ratings success by introducing more diverse and dynamic personalities.
‘Casting someone from England was important,’ an insider revealed.
‘The show’s success overseas has shown us that viewers love seeing a mix of backgrounds and cultures. Billy brings that unique British charm and authenticity that we believe will resonate well with the audience.’
Billy’s presence is expected to add an interesting twist to the series, with show runners eagerly anticipating how his bold personality and unique style will play out in the show’s pressure cooker environment.
‘He’s got a great sense of humour and isn’t afraid to speak his mind,’ another source said. ‘We think the viewers will love him.’
He joins previously announced grooms FIFO wellness coach Paul Antoine, Wellbeing coordinator Jake Luik, Business owner Jeff Gobbels, Caulker Business owner Dave Hand and Eliot Donovan.
Some viewers have already threatened to boycott the 2025 series after the casting of well-known reality stars, including Antoine, who also appeared on The Real Love Boat and Bachelor star Sierah Swepstone.
Fans of the show expressed their frustration on social media, accusing the producers of recycling reality TV personalities rather than giving ordinary Australians a chance to find love.
‘MAFS has lost its authenticity,’ one disgruntled viewer wrote on Instagram.
‘It’s supposed to be about genuine people finding love, not giving more airtime to people who are already famous.’
Another fan commented: ‘I’m so done with MAFS. Bringing in people like Paul and Sierah just shows how desperate they are for ratings. Boycotting this season for sure.’
‘For the last time Australia wants to see real genuine everyday people… not these types!! For the love of God,’ a third wrote.
‘Why can’t they find people that genuinely want to find a partner. Not someone that’s after social media fame. So over seeing all these people that are just social climbers,’ another questioned.