Ryan Donnelly Applies for AVO Against On-Screen Wife Jacqui Burfoot After Interim Restraining Order Halts Social Media Comments

Married At First Sight’s Ryan Donnelly and Jacqui Burfoot in Legal Feud

Ryan Donnelly from Married At First Sight Australia has filed for an apprehended violence order (AVO) against his on-screen wife, Jacqui Burfoot, escalating their off-screen conflict. The application, submitted at Campbelltown Courthouse, is set for mention on April 23. This follows Jacqui’s recent interim restraining order against Ryan in a Tasmanian court, barring him from discussing her on social media.

The pair’s public feud intensified after months of Instagram spats and media interviews. Jacqui argued in court that Ryan’s behavior had gone beyond typical post-show drama, citing a Daily Mail Australia interview where Ryan allegedly accused her of questioning his consent. Magistrate Sharon Cure granted her interim order, restricting Ryan from threatening, harassing, or posting derogatory content about Jacqui. However, Cure cautioned Jacqui about the consequences of misleading the court.

[Image: Jacqui Burfoot in court]
Caption: Jacqui Burfoot was granted an interim order against Ryan over social media conduct.

During the hearing, Jacqui—accompanied by boyfriend and MAFS co-star Clint Rice—expressed willingness for the show’s final episodes to air despite the order. The magistrate tailored the restrictions to avoid impacting the show’s broadcast.

The drama spilled into Monday’s Final Vows episode, where Jacqui stunned viewers by accusing Ryan of orchestrating a “gang attack” against her. Reading from a lengthy speech, she criticized his lack of effort, poor communication, and boundary violations. Ryan repeatedly interrupted, calling her vows “ridiculous” and mocking her claims.

[Image: Ryan Donnelly at court]
Caption: Ryan Donnelly’s AVO application follows Jacqui’s legal actions.

Jacqui concluded her vows by declaring, “In a world of red flags, you are the red carpet,” before walking away. Ryan retaliated, shouting, “Be gone with you, you horrible woman.” Post-filming, Jacqui hinted at a new romance with Clint Rice, who was originally paired with Lauren Hall.

[Image: MAFS Final Vows scene]
Caption: Jacqui’s explosive Final Vows speech accused Ryan of a “gang attack.”

The ex-couple’s legal battles and on-screen clashes highlight the toxic fallout of their MAFS marriage. With both pursuing AVOs and trading barbs publicly, their saga continues to unfold beyond the show’s finale.