Married At First Sight Australia (MAFS) is well-known for its fast-paced romances, intense breakups, and couples that grab the audience’s attention.
In season 12, Ashleigh Ackerman and Jake Luik quickly emerged as one of the most talked-about duos.
Their story began with a blend of chemistry and laughter, but as the series unfolded, fans were left with a burning question: Did Ashleigh and Jake manage to stay together following their televised wedding?
Are Ashleigh and Jake Still Together?
Regrettably, Ashleigh and Jake have gone their separate ways, marking their split as one of the most intense moments of the season. Initially drawn to each other by their individual quirks and shared vision for a lasting relationship, they approached their wedding day with hope and excitement for their shared future.
However, the turning point came during the controversial Photo Ranking challenge, where Jake’s derogatory and racially insensitive remarks towards fellow contestants completely caught Ashleigh off guard. This confrontation over his comments led to a significant rift between them, altering the course of their relationship.
The fallout from that incident led Ashleigh to confide in another bride, Sierah, regarding Jake’s comments. Jake viewed this as a betrayal, and feeling he couldn’t trust Ashleigh anymore, he opted to write “leave” at the first Commitment Ceremony. Even though Ashleigh wanted to resolve their issues—writing “stay”—Jake chose to bow out of the experiment the following morning, packing his bags and heading back to Perth. This sudden departure marked the end of their relationship, both on and off-screen.
What Caused Ashleigh and Jake’s Breakup?
Their breakup stemmed from a clash in values and personalities. Ashleigh mentioned that their initial chemistry felt comfortable, but over time she realized that Jake’s humor and emotional maturity weren’t up to par.
The Photo Ranking challenge was a turning point, laying bare their differences in how they viewed respect and communication. Jake’s unwillingness to take responsibility for his words and his choice to leave without addressing their problems left Ashleigh feeling disappointed and abandoned.
How Did Ashleigh and Jake Reflect on Their Time Together?
Since their split, both Ashleigh and Jake have shared their thoughts about their time on MAFS Australia in interviews. Ashleigh noted that, despite the disappointment, she appreciated the experience for the excitement and personal growth it offered her.
She expressed that she wouldn’t change a thing about her time on the show, although she made it clear she’d only consider returning if she had a more compatible match. On the other hand, Jake has kept a lower profile, and there hasn’t been much public indication of any reconciliation or ongoing contact between the two.
Which Other MAFS Australia Couples Are Still Together?
While Ashleigh and Jake’s relationship ended unexpectedly, several other couples from their season have found lasting love. For example, Rhi and Jeff are still happily together and are taking steps to build a future beyond the show, including celebrating milestones and planning for marriage and family.
This contrast showcases the unpredictable nature of the MAFS journey, where some couples thrive while others struggle to navigate their challenges.
