By Stig Editor 
Connect TV CEO Kopano Cowen has shared exciting insights into the highly anticipated second season of Married at First Sight Mzansi, describing it as a bold and unconventional take on love and marriage. Set to premiere soon, the reality show, produced by Connect TV, continues to captivate South African audiences with its unique social experiment, where singles marry strangers chosen by relationship experts. Cowen, who recently took over as CEO from Basetsana Kumalo, emphasized that this season will blend local cultural nuances with the global format, promising a fresh and engaging viewing experience.
Cowen highlighted the show’s evolution, noting that Season 2 will dive deeper into the cultural context of marriage in South Africa, where family and community play significant roles. She pointed out that the first season sparked conversations about traditions like lobola and family approval, which resonated strongly with viewers. For the upcoming season, the casting process is underway, seeking participants aged 25 to 40 who are open to a committed relationship, including queer individuals this time. Cowen stressed the importance of finding participants brave enough to embrace the experiment while remaining relatable to the audience, ensuring the show remains entertaining and socially relevant.
Under Cowen’s leadership, Connect TV is expanding its creative horizons beyond unscripted content, venturing into documentaries and scripted projects. She envisions further collaborations in the streaming space and free-to-air television, aiming to reach a broader South African viewership. The CEO also revealed plans to develop content for YouTube, exploring new monetization strategies. This strategic shift reflects her decade-long experience in the industry, including her rise from a production intern to executive producer, bolstered by an LLB degree and a postgraduate business administration qualification from Milpark Business School.
The casting for Married at First Sight Mzansi Season 2 is open, with applicants encouraged to email love@connect.tv with their details to join the experiment. Cowen explained that the relationship experts will assess candidates based on relationship status, health, wellness, and professional stability, ensuring genuine participants. This season’s diverse cast is expected to bring new dynamics, building on the success of Season 1 couples like Thami and Zithobile, whose journey kept viewers hooked. The show’s experts, including marriage coach Linda Yende and sexologist Dr. Mpume Zenda, will guide the couples through the unconventional process.
Cowen’s appointment as CEO marks a new era for Connect TV, following Kumalo’s 30-year tenure, during which she produced hits like Date My Family and the first season of Married at First Sight Mzansi. Kumalo has praised Cowen’s work ethic and passion, expressing confidence in her ability to elevate the channel. The second season, set to air on Mzansi Magic, promises to push boundaries further, with Cowen describing it as a “totally unconventional” exploration of love that challenges traditional norms. Fans can expect a mix of drama, romance, and cultural reflection as the couples navigate their marriages.
As anticipation builds, Cowen remains focused on delivering content that entertains while reflecting South African values. The premiere date for Season 2 has yet to be confirmed, but the nationwide search for participants is in full swing. With her innovative vision and deep industry knowledge, Cowen is poised to take Married at First Sight Mzansi to new heights, offering viewers a compelling narrative of love in an unconventional setting. Stay tuned for more updates as the show prepares to redefine reality television in the region.