Social Services Minister Tanya Plibersek has launched a scathing critique of Married At First Sight participant Tyson Gordon, directly targeting his openly sexist behaviour on the popular reality television programme. The 56-year-old MP shared a clip from the show on social media, highlighting an excerpt where Gordon, aged 30, expressed his desire for an "obedient woman" as a partner, which Plibersek explicitly likened to coercive control.
Minister's Blistering Attack on Mainstreamed Misogyny
"Seriously, this guy. This is exactly the sort of controlling behaviour we are trying to combat when we talk about getting rid of coercive control," Plibersek stated emphatically. "The fact that this is being mainstreamed on a really popular show is profoundly disappointing." She further urged the producers of MAFS to exercise greater responsibility in the messages they broadcast, asserting, "I genuinely believe the makers of this show need to think twice before platforming this sort of misogyny."
Tyson Gordon's Controversial 'Anti-Woke' Stance
The groom in question has cultivated a notorious reputation for vocally promoting his controversial 'anti-woke' viewpoints. During a recent Sunday episode, Gordon intensified his stance, astonishing his bride Stephanie Marshall and the series' relationship experts. He initiated the conflict by making a dated assumption about his partner, remarking, "I felt like Steph didn't support me, she's very quiet. I get it, she is a female so probably didn't want to be argumentative."
Marshall, however, firmly rejected this notion, retorting, "I don't think it has anything to do with being a female. I feel I meet Tyson's requirements—I'm goal-driven, ambitious, a family girl—but he doesn't like any of that... It's too masculine!" Gordon then accused her of speaking in a "pretentious" manner and "talking down" to him.
Experts Intervene and Call Out Problematic Behaviour
Series expert John Aiken promptly challenged Gordon, noting that his own conduct was far worse. "Last night at the Dinner Party you called her a 'temporary wife'. You said if you liked her more you might pay for the full dinner bill... that she is too much like a man," Aiken recounted. Gordon admitted he was at his "breaking point" because Marshall did not conform to the "submissive type" he claimed to be attracted to.
"[I'm attracted to] The more easy-going type, who is not constantly talking down to me. When someone is constantly in your face trying to challenge you, it comes across as very domineering. It is masculine in my eyes!" Gordon declared bluntly. He attributed his preferences to traditional upbringing, stating, "The way I have been raised is traditional values, my dad was the breadwinner and my mum stayed home, raised us kids."
Mel Schilling Labels Demands as 'Concerning'
Fellow expert Mel Schilling confronted Gordon about his desire for a "submissive" partner, arguing that he essentially sought someone who would relinquish their own rights to cater exclusively to his needs. "You're saying, 'I want to be with someone who will lie down and give up their rights.' Not someone who will try to have their needs met. Someone who will make the relationship all about you and your needs," Schilling explained, describing his demands as "concerning."
Despite the palpable tension and widespread criticism, the couple ultimately agreed to continue their relationship for another attempt, leaving viewers and commentators alike questioning the broader implications of such dynamics being showcased on national television.
