“I can’t take it anymore”: Married At First Sight’s runaway bride VANISHES days into filming – leaving producers in chaos as explosive claims of a secret ex rock the experiment

In a dramatic twist that’s sent shockwaves through the latest season of Married At First Sight Australia (MAFS 2026), Queensland model Brook Crompton, 27, became the show’s infamous “runaway bride” by abruptly quitting just days into filming. The move left producers scrambling and sparked intense speculation about her motives, including explosive rumors of a secret reconnection with an ex-boyfriend named Harry.

Brook, paired with groom Chris Nield in the experiment, reportedly booked a one-way flight home without notifying production, defying explicit instructions not to leave. Insiders described the incident as causing “full-scale behind-the-scenes chaos,” with the decision coming amid mounting frustrations.

Despite swirling rumors that her exit involved rekindling a romance with ex Harry during filming (claims Brook has strongly denied), sources close to the situation insist the real issue was the toxic environment of the show itself—not her on-screen marriage.

“She was actually getting along with her groom,” a well-placed source told Daily Mail. “The issue wasn’t the relationship—it was production. She hated being bossed around.”

Tensions escalated quickly as filming realities set in: tight schedules, constant direction, and the financial and personal cost of being away from her real life. “The pressure and the money she was losing just wasn’t worth it,” the source added. “She felt like she’d been promised one experience and got another.”

Matters reached a breaking point when Brook quietly arranged her departure. “She didn’t ask. She didn’t negotiate,” an insider revealed. In her own words from an interview with Chattr, Brook reflected on her pre-show relationship with Harry: “We were talking about wanting to have children, you know, I wanted someone mature who adores me for me.” She described coming out of a serious relationship where they were “settling down,” highlighting her desire for genuine adoration.

Brook maintains any reconnection with Harry happened only after she left the experiment, not during it. However, the scandal deepened with reports (including video footage) showing the pair together post-filming, decorating a Christmas tree and sharing affectionate moments in October—weeks after her on-screen marriage reportedly broke down off-camera. This fueled further speculation, including unconfirmed claims of pregnancy (with an expected due date around June).

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The incident highlights ongoing criticisms of MAFS production pressures, with Brook’s exit adding to the season’s early chaos of meltdowns and crackdowns. While her on-screen pairing with Chris appeared cordial at times (they were spotted smiling during a grocery run amid drama), the behind-the-scenes toll proved too much.

Brook has since faced fan backlash for other moments, including clashes with co-stars, but her departure remains one of the most explosive stories of MAFS 2026 so far.