Scottish Make-up Artist Marries Stranger on Televised Experiment

A make-up artist hailing from the Highlands of Aviemore has made headlines by participating in the reality TV show, “Married at First Sight.” Sionainn Carmichael, aged 30, was introduced to audiences on E4 as she embarked on the unconventional journey of marrying a stranger in the show’s ninth series. Her match was Ryan Livesey, a waste disposal worker from Manchester, as part of the final wedding of the season.

Sionainn, whose name is pronounced “Shannon,” currently resides in Glasgow where she pursues her career in makeup artistry. Reflecting on her roots, she said, “I grew up in Aviemore and spent my weekends in The Vault rather than skiing,” reminiscing about her childhood in the Highlands. She continued her education in Glasgow, moving at the age of 20 to study makeup, but acknowledges the newfound appreciation for her hometown, saying it’s different visiting as a guest rather than being a resident.

The show’s format involves couples meeting for the first time at the altar, followed by a honeymoon and shared living arrangements with other couples from the series. Participants, including Carmichael, are required to keep plot details undisclosed until the series conclusion. To viewership’s anticipation, Sionainn hinted that the series, described as “very dramatic,” has “a lot to look forward to.”

The burgeoning relationship between Sionainn and Ryan was initially hesitant, particularly on her part. However, the bond strengthened as Ryan revealed personal aspects of his life, including his experience as a cancer survivor and his role as a father to a six-year-old son, Leo. Despite initial reservations, Sionainn indicated that viewers would have to “tune in to see how it plays out.”

“Married at First Sight” is recognized as a social experiment with a track record of success stories, including four couples who have started families together. The most recent season, aired in September 2023, achieved record viewership on E4 and ranked as the second most streamed show in the UK at the time. The production team is already seeking participants for future series, inviting individuals over the age of 18 who are prepared to marry to apply by February 1.