Emily Balch Opens Up About Controlling Ex-Husband on 'Married at First Sight' Reunion

Married at First Sight former couple Emily Balch and Brennan Shoykhet are still not seeing eye to eye on the reasons behind their divorce.

In a preview of the season 17 reunion on We, Emily, 29, and Brennan, 28, sit down together to discuss their problems. Host Kevin Frazier moderates as Brennan tries to clarify what went wrong during their couples therapy session with Dr. Pia Holec.

Brennan admits that he was overly worried about how sharing his feelings would affect Emily during their conversation. However, Emily believes that Brennan was simply being thoughtful of his own emotions.

"I always remind you that I'm a grown woman. Even when you say hurtful things, I take it as a positive step for us."

MAFS Emily Claims Ex Husband Brennan Manipulated Her in Reunion Teaser

Emily and Brennan were paired up by the MAFS experts for the Lifetime reality show in Denver. Emily felt a strong connection with her new spouse right away, expressing that he was her ideal physical type. However, Brennan did not share the same feelings and was hesitant to live with Emily.

The couples’ retreat one month later turned out to be a short break for Brennan and Emily. After Emily had a serious ATV accident and needed surgery, Brennan moved in to take care of her. However, he still had some doubts, so they went to therapy with Dr. Pia.

During the reunion, Brennan admitted, "That was my first time in therapy. I thought we had already talked about everything, but I didn't realize you felt differently. I saw it as a chance to address our problems. I'm sorry for how it went with Dr. Pia."

He explains, "I misunderstood the situation and misinterpreted the intentions behind it."

On the other hand, Emily believes that Brennan was attempting to manipulate her by shutting her out.

"I hope you can see that you were being controlling. I don't want you to just say you were controlling without really meaning it," expresses the bride. "I hope you can truly see the control in your actions. What you did there hurt more than any hurtful words you could say."

Emily, who had never been in a relationship before marrying Brennan at first sight, points out that Brennan may not understand that she doesn't care about many things and is actually self-confident in various aspects.

Emily explains that the phrase "I was protecting her" has become a trigger word for her because it makes her feel like she is being treated as someone who needs protection. She clarifies that in reality, the person saying this phrase was actually protecting themselves.

Brennan tries to apologize during the reunion for his actions, admitting that he didn't communicate effectively during their relationship.

Emily and Brennan, along with the other season 17 cast members, decided to get divorced on Decision Day.

The Married at First Sight season 17 reunion kicks off on Lifetime Wednesday, April 10, at 8 p.m. ET.

Editor's P/S:

The reunion episode between Emily Balch and Brennan Shoykhet from "Married at First Sight" showcased their contrasting perspectives on their failed marriage. While Brennan attributed his communication issues to a misguided attempt to protect Emily's feelings, Emily perceived his actions as manipulative and controlling. Their differing interpretations highlight the complex dynamics that can arise in relationships, particularly when expectations and communication styles clash.

Emily's perspective as a woman who previously lacked romantic experience adds depth to her interpretation of Brennan's behavior. Her assertion that the phrase "protecting her" triggers a sense of being treated as vulnerable reveals a potential power imbalance within the relationship. Brennan's acknowledgment of his ineffective communication may indicate a lack of emotional maturity or relationship skills that hindered their ability to resolve conflicts effectively. The reunion episode serves as a valuable reminder of the importance of open and empathetic communication, as well as the need for partners to understand each other's perspectives and expectations in order to build a healthy and fulfilling relationship.