A former participant in the television series Married At First Sight has expressed significant distress following an alleged campaign orchestrated by his ex-partner to undermine his life and career. The individual involved is Ryan Donnelly, who experienced considerable anxiety after Jacqui Burfoot engaged in a sustained effort to publicly discredit him through social media posts.
Donnelly and Burfoot were initially matched on the show’s latest season, but their relationship quickly deteriorated culminating in a highly contentious final ceremony where personal attacks were exchanged. This conflict subsequently escalated beyond the confines of the program.
Following the breakdown of their marriage, Burfoot obtained an interim restraining order in Tasmania, restricting Donnelly’s ability to discuss her publicly on social media platforms. In response, Donnelly pursued an apprehended domestic violence order against Burfoot, which was heard at Sydney’s Campbelltown Local Court earlier this week.
“I have suffered considerable harm as a result of deeply damaging and deliberately misleading statements made about me online,” Donnelly stated. “Someone has actively sought to dismantle my prospects, including limiting potential career opportunities and collaborations – illustrating that men can also be victims of such actions.” He recounted experiencing genuine fear during this period.
Donnelly’s application requested a court order preventing Burfoot from publishing any information regarding him or his associates on social media for a duration of two years. The proposed order would also prohibit her from engaging in acts of violence, threats, stalking, intimidation, or damage – specifically encompassing harm to his pet dog, Freya. Furthermore, the order stipulated that she be restricted from approaching Donnelly directly, except through legal counsel.
Burfoot, currently residing in Tasmania with another participant from the series, opted not to appear in court on Wednesday and instead submitted an opposing email. Magistrate Shane McAnulty declined to grant the restraining order without Burfoot’s presence and scheduled a further hearing for June 24th, requesting both parties submit their written arguments.
Speaking outside the courthouse, Donnelly emphasized his desire to move forward with his life while asserting a need for protection. “It’s crucial that justice is served,” he asserted. He believes the legal proceedings represent a prudent use of judicial resources and anticipates a robust case for defamation against Burfoot.
Donnelly declined to elaborate on whether he would cease posting about Burfoot or completely withdraw from social media, noting that Married At First Sight can provide valuable experiences. The initial exchange between the two participants during their televised relationship was characterized by sharp criticism – with Burfoot famously stating, “Ryan, in a world of red flags, you are the red carpet,” to which Donnelly responded, “Be gone with you, you horrible woman.”
Burfoot is currently engaged to another former cast member, Clint Rice, who proposed during a viewing party for the show’s finale.
