Tshepo Miya Reveals Behind-the-Scenes Struggles on Married At First Sight SA

JOHANNESBURG

Married At First Sight SA contestant Tshepo Miya has detailed marriage difficulties and off-camera conflicts with castmates during an exclusive interview about his stormy time on the show.

Eight weeks into the Mzansi Magic reality show featuring four expert-matched couples, Tshepo claimed early tensions surfaced with wife Palesa Mphaki during their honeymoon. “She asked that I avoid direct communication with women in production and redirect them to her,” he revealed. “I found that strange as we were still getting to know each other.”

Pressure to Pretend

Tshepo objected to what he called pressure to maintain a perfect image for cameras: “My wife would say we need to ‘nip issues in the bud’ and appear okay. But I cannot pretend — if I’m not okay, then I am not okay.”

Clash With Costars

He admitted to off-screen friction with fellow bride Makoto Phumodi: “My issue with Makoto came from a few off-screen run-ins. She had conflict with Nkululeko, and I’ve never wanted to surround myself with unruly people who can just say whatever they want without showing respect.”

Show’s Tough Lessons

Despite online bullying since the show aired, Tshepo praised the “amazing brotherhood” formed with male participants. The experience taught him he had “tougher skin than I thought. People will always form opinions, and the only thing you can do is keep showing up as yourself.”

His advice for future contestants remains blunt: “Be prepared for anything. Not all that glitters is gold. Trust your gut instincts and never depart from who you are.”