Married at First Sight Returns with 'XL' Format, Couples Living Together

The Swedish reality show "Gift vid första ögonkastet" (Married at First Sight) returns with an "XL" format for its upcoming season, featuring more singles than ever before. Twelve individuals will marry complete strangers, but unlike previous seasons, all couples will reside together in a multi-family home in Stockholm's Hammarby sjöstad.

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It was my last resort to apply for this program.

This new season, which will have 16 episodes instead of 10, also introduces recurring "vow renewal ceremonies" throughout the series, not just at the conclusion. A notable change is the addition of TV psychologist Anna Bennich, formerly of TV4's "Nyhetsmorgon," as a relationship expert. Bennich, who is taking a break from her previous role, expressed excitement about the new format, believing it will foster greater support and equality among the couples.

Olivia Björklund, 28, described her participation as a "last resort" to find a life partner, having previously struggled to find the right person. She was paired with Urban Nyman, 36, who welcomed the program's expert guidance as a time-saving approach to finding a partner. "The question is rather why I wouldn't want to apply for a program like this, where I have a group of experts like Anna who you let outsource it to," Nyman stated. "It saves a lot of time and energy. All I have to do is show up as the man I am and be clear about what I want."

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The question is rather why I wouldn't want to apply for a program like this, where I have a group of experts like Anna who you let outsource it to. It saves a lot of time and energy. All I have to do is show up as the man I am and be clear about what I want.

"Gift vid första ögonkastet XL" premieres on SVT on August 23rd.

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It felt very fun with this new format.