“I Still Have Work to Do in Dealing with Abandonment and Rejection” – Bongani, Married at First Sight South Africa

For the past 11 weeks, Married at First Sight South Africa has kept fans on the edge of their seats with raw emotions, explosive drama, and tender moments of connection. Airing every Sunday at 6PM on Mzansi Magic and streaming on Showmax, the reality experiment follows four couples as they navigate the highs and lows of marrying a stranger:

• Palesa Mphaki & Tshepo Miya
• Makoto Phumodi & Nkuleleko Mahlangu
• Themba Khosa & Nelisa Ntabeni
• Portia Baloyi & Bongani Luvalo

In the most recent episode, emotions ran deep when Portia and Bongani shared a heartfelt conversation about grief, following the passing of Portia’s father. It was a raw, unscripted moment that reminded viewers just how real the stakes are.

We sat down with Bongani Luvalo, who opened up about why he joined the show, how he’s been navigating his marriage, and the personal battles he’s still working through.

Why he joined the experiment

“I joined Married at First Sight to try a different approach in finding a wife, to cut out options and see if one can meet a person who’s committed to the institution of marriage. I was tired of the outside noise and was intentional in giving my all to building a marriage, family and a home.”

His first thoughts when meeting Portia

“When I first saw my wife, I thought ‘it doesn’t get more real than this’.”

Therapy as preparation

“I generally live in therapy… not because I have deep things to deal with but because it’s a tool I need in the journey of life. Once I was confirmed as a participant, my therapist and I created scenarios and worked through them. It still took a toll on me, but therapy gave me a toolbox I use whenever I’m challenged.”

Navigating Portia’s grief

“The passing of Portia’s dad was tough. I couldn’t fully be there for her. Traditionally, I wasn’t recognised as her husband yet, and I had to leave the country for two weeks. It was difficult.”

Staying calm amid conflict

“I’ve learned to know when something is about me or not. People’s actions aren’t always a reflection of who we are. I don’t take things personally, and I know when to step back and return with less emotion.”

Which couple he believes in

“I would say Nelisa and Themba. They came with intention, knowing what they want out of the experience, and they approach each day with respect and the benefit of the doubt.”

The biggest lesson from the journey

“This experiment has cemented that I love love, and that I still have work to do in dealing with abandonment and rejection.”

Public recognition

“Yes, people are starting to recognise me as the guy from MAFS. Most get my name wrong but they’re friendly, supportive, and want to see our marriage succeed.”

Why viewers should keep watching

“People should continue watching because it’s a relatable story of how people grow into each other. There are still more ups and downs that will test the marriage, and it can’t unfold without the viewers witnessing it.”

With more drama, challenges, and heartfelt conversations still to come, Bongani and Portia’s journey has become one of the most compelling on the show. Will they rise above their struggles, or will their marriage buckle under the weight of reality? Fans will have to keep watching Married at First Sight SA every Sunday at 6PM on Mzansi Magic and on Showmax to find out.