MAFS 2025 ‘accidentally’ pairs ex-couple in disastrous mistake: ‘This was definitely not part of the plan’

Married At First Sight 2025 has begun with an unprecedented blunder.

What is supposed to be a show about marrying complete strangers took a chaotic turn when one bride and groom realised they had already met—at the altar.

Daily Mail Australia can reveal that business owner Jeff Gobbels and fitness influencer Rhi Disljenkovic, both based in Melbourne, were left astounded when they were unexpectedly reunited on the set of the reality show last Thursday.

According to Yahoo, the pair had been seeing each other around this time last year after being introduced by Australian Survivor star and football presenter Abbey Holmes.

Sources have since told Daily Mail Australia that the pair ‘dated for several months’ before things fizzled and they went their seperate ways.

As for them knowing each other on MAFS an insider revealed: ‘This was definitely not part of the plan.’

‘Producers were as surprised as anyone when Jeff and Rhi recognised each other. But they’re hopeful that this unexpected twist could actually work in their favour.

‘Sometimes, a past connection can be a strong foundation to build on, and the experts believe they can help Jeff and Rhi reignite their relationship.’

Married At First Sight 2025 has begun with an unprecedented blunder. What is supposed to be a show about marrying complete strangers took a chaotic turn when one bride and groom realised they had already met—at the altar

Photos from their past shared on Instagram show Jeff engaging with Rhi’s striking selfies, hinting at their previous connection.

Despite parting ways, the duo ‘have kept in touch’ and still attend the same group classes at Hurt Locker Richmond gym.

Their family and friends were all seen erupting into laughter as they too acknowledged the amusing gaffe.

Sources have since told Daily Mail Australia that the pair ‘dated for several months’ before things fizzled and they went their seperate ways

Despite the very unlikely start, the newlyweds walked off hand-in-hand after exchanging vows as it appeared to be a pleasant surprise for the pair.

Rhi is currently employed as an IT account manager at Seisma Group, having previously held similar managerial roles at other companies.

Meanwhile, Jeff is the third TV star to be cast on the 2025 instalment of the dating show, prompting backlash from fans over producers casting well-known names.

He made his debut on long-running Aussie soap opera Neighbours in 2017 as police officer Kurt Bridges and went on to appear in three episodes of the show.

He has also racked up other minor acting credits in TV mini series The Warriors, 2018 film Undertow and 2019 Chinese drama The Whistleblower.

The Bachelor star Sierah Swepstone and Perth-based fitness coach Paul Antoine, who previously appeared on The Real Love Boat, will also be part of the new season.

Despite the very unlikely start, the newlyweds walked off hand-in-hand together after exchanging vows as it appeared to be a pleasant surprise for the pair

For the ceremony, Rhi looked every inch the blushing bride in a gorgeous strapless gown embellished with stunning embroidered detailing

She fixed her brunette tresses into a stylish up-do while her long veil billowed out behind her as she looked ready for her big moment

She showed off her stunning features with a high-glamour make-up palette as she posed for her gorgeous wedding day portraits

Sierah’s elimination from The Bachelor went down in reality TV history as one of the best exits when she hilariously confessed Jimmy wasn’t into ‘tall, horny bogans’ after he sent her home.

Despite her genuine search for love on her previous reality show, many believe her casting on MAFS is a strategic move by the producers to attract viewers rather than focusing on authentic matchmaking.

Some fans have even threatened to boycott the 2025 series after the casting of well-known reality stars, including Jeff, Sierah and Paul.

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.

Rhi is currently employed as an IT account manager at Seisma Group, having previously held similar managerial roles at other companies

Jeff made his debut on long-running Aussie soap opera Neighbours in 2017 as police officer Kurt Bridges and went on to appear in three episodes of the show

Jeff is the third TV star to be cast on the 2025 dating show, prompting backlash from fans over producers casting well-known names, including The Bachelor star Sierah Swepstone

Perth-based fitness coach Paul Antoine, who previously appeared on The Real Love Boat, will also be part of the upcoming series

‘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.