(Source: The Mirror; Channel 4)

Married at First Sight UK star Davide Anica has officially spoken out for the first time about his unexpected and emotional breakup with co-star Keye Luke, months after the pair captivated audiences as one of the standout couples on the hit E4 reality series.

The duo were matched by the show’s experts and exchanged vows upon their very first meeting, embarking on the experimental marriage that forms the heart of MAFS UK. Over the course of the series, their connection appeared to strengthen, with many viewers and fellow cast members praising their openness, vulnerability, and easy emotional chemistry. By the time the season finale aired, Davide and Keye had become firm fan favourites, with many believing they had long-term potential (Source: Channel 4).

However, shortly after the show’s reunion episodes broadcast, Keye shocked fans by confirming that the couple had separated. In a deeply personal social media statement released last week, he opened up about the mental and emotional struggles he had faced following the experiment.

Keye wrote: “In the early hours of a Sunday morning, while Davide was on a flight, I downloaded Grindr. I want to be clear that I was not looking to cheat, hook up, or find someone else. I was in a dark and fragile place and reached for something unhealthy because I did not know how else to cope.” He went on to explain that the impulse came from emotional overwhelm rather than romantic or physical desire, adding that he also turned to substances during that period when what he really needed was support.

He continued: “When Davide found my profile through his, it cost me my marriage. That is something I carry with me every day.”
(Source: The Mirror)

Days later, Davide has now shared his side of the story, revealing that the incident occurred five months ago and that it had an irreversible impact on their relationship. In a heartfelt statement posted to social media, he wrote:

“The night in question … I had a gut feeling something wasn’t right. Out of my own insecurity I created a profile on Grindr to check whether Keye was on the app, only to find that my gut feeling was correct.”

He described the discovery as “painful”, saying that the trust between them fractured instantly and in a way he could not repair:
“That moment was painful and it made the trust between us break in a way I couldn't move past. … I won’t lie, I was deeply hurt and shocked, but with time, I’ve healed and found peace.”

Despite their split, both Davide and Keye emphasised that they still hold deep affection and respect for one another. Their fellow cast members quickly offered messages of solidarity. Abi Lindsay commented:
“You are one of the most genuine, kind, caring people I know… I will always be here for you.”
Meanwhile, Leigh Harris praised Davide’s strength and empathy, writing:
“Even when people hurt you, you still act with kindness and compassion.”

The breakup of Davide and Keye isn’t the only heartbreak to emerge from the season. Fans were also saddened when Rebecca Fen and Bailey Smith—another admired couple—confirmed their separation last week. Bailey explained online that watching their relationship unfold on television while dealing with real-life challenges made the split especially difficult:
“We tried our best to navigate life after the experiment… but unfortunately the relationship came to an end.”

All episodes of Married at First Sight UK remain available to stream on Channel 4’s catch-up service (Source: Channel 4).