Mafs Star Dave Hand Joins Netflix'S Perfect Match: "Get Your Popcorn Ready!"

  • By Cole
  • April 21, 2026, 8 a.m.

MAFS Star's Bold Move to Netflix

Married At First Sight (MAFS) alumni Dave Thomas Hand is swapping wedding rings for roses as he joins the fourth season of Netflix’s hit reality show Perfect Match. Known for his role in MAFS 2025, the Melbourne-based builder – and self-described “friendly giant” – is venturing into the American reality TV scene, a leap that took many by surprise.

Rather than joining the usual influencer path or the adrenaline-fueled challenges of I'm A Celebrity or SAS, Dave has decided to dive into the unpredictable waters of this matchmaking series. It's a move that sets him apart as the first Australian TV star to feature on the show.

What's Perfect Match All About?

Hosted by Nick Lachey, Perfect Match pits singles from various reality shows against each other in a quest to find their ideal partner. Initially limited to Netflix brands like Love Is Blind and Too Hot To Handle, the show now welcomes contestants from Love Island, The Bachelor, and more. Dave, at 38, stands out as the oldest contestant in its history.

The upcoming season promises an eclectic mix of personalities, featuring stars from Vanderpump Rules, Love Island, and even Squid Game: The Challenge. Mark your calendars – the season drops on May 13.

“There’s definitely a mix of nerves and excitement, but overall I’m just keen for people to see it,” Dave shared. "I had such a good time filming, and I think that really comes through.”

From Coffee Shop to Reality TV Stardom

Dave’s journey to Perfect Match began in the most unexpected way. While enjoying a quiche with his dog Willow at a local café, he received a life-changing call. A casting team member, who discovered him while watching MAFS in the States, championed his addition to the show.

Reflecting on the casting process, Dave shared that it felt "completely out of the blue" but quickly turned into an exciting opportunity. Now, he’s ready to bring his energy to the global stage, teasing fans with an understatement: "Get your popcorn ready!"

While Dave is the first from his MAFS cohort to join another reality TV series, whispers of his fellow cast member, Gia Fleur, signing on for an undisclosed show have already begun. As the reality TV world continues to spin, it seems these stars will keep capturing our attention when we least expect it.

Cole
Author: Cole
Cole

Cole

Cole covers the infrastructure of the creator economy - OnlyFans, Fansly, Patreon, and the rules that move money. Ex–fact-checker and recovering musicologist, he translates ToS changes, fees, and DMCA actions into clear takeaways for creators and fans. His column Receipts First turns hype into numbers and next steps. LA-based; sources protected; zero patience for vague PR.