In a dramatic turn of events, Ryan Donnelly, a groom from the reality TV series Married At First Sight, has claimed that his estranged on-screen bride, Jacqui Burfoot, attempted to destroy his life through malicious online allegations. The couple, who were paired during the latest season of the popular Australian show, separated during a heated final vows ceremony, which was laden with insults and accusations.
On April 23, 2025, Donnelly appeared in Campbelltown Local Court seeking an Apprehended Domestic Violence Order (ADVO) against Burfoot, following her being granted an interim restraining order in Tasmania that barred him from discussing her on social media. The court proceedings have highlighted the couple's tumultuous relationship, which has now escalated into a legal battle.
Burfoot, who currently resides in Tasmania with her new fiancé, Clint Rice, did not attend the court hearing but sent an email opposing the ADVO. Magistrate Shane McAnulty, overseeing the case, decided not to proceed with the matter in her absence and scheduled a follow-up hearing for June 24, 2025.
Outside the courthouse, Donnelly expressed his distress over the situation, stating, "An individual has tried to destroy my life, my potential for career options, collaborations... with false allegations, so men can be victims as well." He added that he had suffered significantly due to Burfoot's claims and had received menacing messages as a result of her actions.
"At one point I was very afraid," Donnelly revealed, emphasizing the emotional toll the situation has taken on him. He is seeking a restraining order that would prevent Burfoot from publishing anything about him or his friends on social media for two years. The order would also prohibit her from assaulting, threatening, stalking, or intimidating him, as well as damaging his property, including his dog, Freya.
Burfoot's interim restraining order was granted after she claimed in a Tasmanian court that Donnelly's conduct had escalated following their breakup. She had initially sought an order to stop him from posting denigrating material about her online. In her absence from the court, the magistrate indicated he was unwilling to grant the ADVO without her presence.
In a previous court session, Burfoot had described the online exchanges between her and Donnelly, asserting that his behavior had become increasingly aggressive. The interim order made by Tasmanian magistrate Sharon Cure prevented Donnelly from directly or indirectly threatening, harassing, or publishing abusive content about Burfoot.
Donnelly's legal representative, Shirin Razi from Azadi Lawyers, stated that her client is genuinely concerned for his safety and well-being, which prompted him to seek the ADVO. "Ryan would like what any person would like, which is protection, and after the breakdown of a relationship, not to be slandered, bullied, and harassed online," Razi explained.
The public feud between the two former reality stars has drawn considerable media attention, with both parties exchanging barbs on social media and in interviews since their split. Donnelly has claimed that Burfoot's allegations have severely impacted his reputation and mental health, leading him to feel fearful of the repercussions.
"I've had a lot of suffering, a lot of harm, as a result of these claims online," he stated. "There is no foundation for it. It's vicious, malicious... justice should be served." He underscored that the situation is not just a personal issue but also a broader commentary on how both men and women can be victims of false allegations.
The couple's relationship on Married At First Sight was fraught with tension, culminating in a memorable final vows segment where Burfoot told Donnelly, "Ryan, in a world of red flags, you are the red carpet." Donnelly's sharp retort, "Be gone with you, you horrible woman," encapsulated the animosity that had developed between them.
Since their breakup, Burfoot has moved on and is now engaged to fellow MAFS participant Clint Rice, who was originally paired with another contestant, Lauren Hall. The couple's engagement occurred during a viewing party for the show's finale, marking a significant shift in Burfoot's life post-show.
As the legal proceedings unfold, both Donnelly and Burfoot are navigating the complexities of their public personas as reality TV stars while dealing with personal grievances. The upcoming court date in June will determine the next steps in this contentious saga, as both parties prepare their cases and gather evidence to support their claims.
Despite the turmoil, Donnelly remains hopeful for a resolution. He stated, "I want to move on with my life but I want to make sure I'm protected." The legal battles have not only affected their lives but also raised questions about the implications of reality television on personal relationships and the potential for public scrutiny to escalate into serious legal issues.
As this story continues to develop, it serves as a reminder of the very real consequences that can arise from the often sensationalized world of reality television. With both parties determined to defend their reputations, the courtroom drama is far from over.
