Amanda Micallef has become one of the most talked-about stars of Married at First Sight Australia. One of the few gay contestants to have appeared in the show in its six-year run, she broke up with her prospective wife before making a final decision on making the marriage permanent, leaving the series after 12 episodes. However, the professional strength coach and personal trainer continued to generate headlines after the show had aired. Her strong views led to sadly predictable trolling on social media as did her subsequent decision to crowdfund a move from her native Melbourne to Queensland — her training business having been severely affected by the pandemic. However, she also has many fans, including 67,000 Instagram followers, who take inspiration from her openness about her journey with sexuality and mental health.
Micallef was born in Melbourne in 1986. As a teenager, she became aware of her sexuality but struggled to come to terms with it, which culminated in her trying to take her own life when she 17. Her parents thought it just a phase, and she tried to conform by dating boys, but by the time she was 21, she’d come out again with her family’s support. A big boost to her self-confidence was training, and the gym became something of a sanctuary for her. By the time she applied to appear on Married at First Sight Australia, she was established as a professional trainer.
Married at First Sight is a popular show which, as the title suggests, matches potential couples who only meet each other at the altar. They then have the chance to get to know each other on a romantic honeymoon before deciding whether to make their union permanent. In Micallef’s case, unfortunately, it wasn’t to be. But the exposure has brought her inspiring story to many who’ll be helped by it.