The Journey of Keith and Iris on MAFS
Iris Caldwell and Keith Manley were matched on Married at First Sight season 9, and despite going their separate ways, they're in the public eye. The couple experienced many issues, but what remained at the core of their troubles was Iris’ reluctance to get intimate. She was a virgin, but that wasn’t the issue. What really bothered Keith was her immaturity about the prospect of intimacy. That frustrated Keith, and despite their initial attraction, they hit turbulence.
Iris and Keith from Married At First Sight wearing wedding attire
Both MAFS cast members came into the process with open hearts and pure intentions. The experts hoped that Keith would be understanding and patient with Iris. However, there were other issues at the heart of their relationship. Ultimately, they were just very incompatible. While he was okay with the fact that Iris was a virgin, Keith felt that Iris lacked experience in other departments. On Decision Day, although Iris wanted to stay married to Keith, he preferred to divorce. At the reunion, Iris was open to reconciliation, but Keith wasn't.
Post-MAFS, Iris & Keith Are Focused on Their Careers. Now, the exes have moved on from their MAFS journey, and both have kept busy since the show ended. Iris frequently posts gorgeous photos on Instagram, and has been spending her time modeling and acting. She appeared in the Netflix film Falling for Christmas in 2022. On the other hand, Keith recently finished writing a book, Life is Just...: A Walk Within. He said the book was inspired by his grandmother, who loved writing. He appeared to be dating musician Ari Lennox in 2022, but it's unknown whether they're still together.
Instagram article posted by irisolivia
Reflections and Regrets
While both of them have similar backgrounds (they are spiritual and religious), that wasn’t enough to keep them together. However, Iris did say that she had no regrets, and wished Keith the best. Their marriage wasn’t all bad, as Iris helped Keith when he had to deal with the passing of his grandmother. Although they weren't a 'forever' match, they were a season in each another's lives. Other couples on MAFS season 9 also chose divorce.
Iris and Keith are both good people, but even with the best of intentions, some things simply don’t click. Neither Keith nor Iris is at fault for the breakdown of their marriage, though it would be easy for them to blame each other. MAFS has changed a lot since season 1, but one aspect that's a constant is the incredibly low MAFS success rate. However, Keith and Iris may still find their people outside of Married at First Sight. Their romantic futures may be better than they could ever have imagined. For now, both appear to be single.
Looking Ahead
The post-MAFS lives of Keith and Iris show that they have both been focused on personal growth and pursuing their individual passions. While their marriage did not work out, they have no regrets about the experience and have moved on to new chapters in their lives. Both continue to be positive influences in their respective communities, and their romantic futures hold the promise of new connections and opportunities. As they navigate the challenges of finding love outside of Married at First Sight, they remain hopeful about the possibilities that lie ahead.