'My confidence took a real hit after the show'
New UK|June 05, 2023
MAFS UK star Chanita Stephenson opens up about finding herself in a dark place and having to build herself up again
KENZI DEVINE
'My confidence took a real hit after the show'

Chanita Stephenson took a huge leap of faith and said “I do” to a complete stranger on last year’s series of Married At First Sight UK. While things may not have worked out for her on the relationship front, she’s certainly been riding a roller-coaster of emotions since then.

The 30-year-old was coupled with Jordan Emmett-Connelly, and the pair looked like they’d be one of the show’s success stories when they got together – even heading off to begin their new life at the end of the series. But a drama-filled reunion episode two months later showed that the spark had died out for them. A year on from filming, former social worker Chanita is still coming to terms with her failed marriage and newfound fame – which hasn’t been an easy journey.

“Watching the show back, I felt so many emotions,” she tells new. “I was cringing at myself, thinking ‘Why did I look like that? Why did I react like that? Did I really say that?’ It was tough because when you watch it, it takes you back to exactly how you felt at that time. So, it was an emotional roller-coaster. I have learnt a lot about myself from it and I know more about my self-worth now, which I thought I did before I went on. Now I really do. Honestly, I’ve had to start from scratch on everything I’ve been working towards before MAFS UK. My confidence and self-esteem… It’s all taken such a hit. I just felt so lonely after the show. I’ve had to build myself up again.”

Chanita goes on to open up about the emotional Christmas reunion episode, which pulled together the cast of seasons six and seven, and saw her walk away from Jordan for good.

This story is from the June 05, 2023 edition of New UK.

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This story is from the June 05, 2023 edition of New UK.

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