Why Did Dr. Viviana Leave 'Married at First Sight'? Fans Have Questions

Things are heating up in San Diego! Married at First Sight kicked off Season 15 on July 6, 2022, and we're already picking out our favorite duos. However, longtime viewers may notice that there are some changes in the show — notably, which experts are taking part in it this time around.

After Lifetime revealed in May 2022 that two new experts (DeVon Franklin and Dr. Pia Holec) would be joining this season of Married at First Sight, Dr. Viviana Coles announced the following month that she would not be returning for the season.

So, why did Dr. Viviana decide to leave Married at First Sight? Let's unpack all of the known details.

When Lifetime announced details about Season 15 of Married at First Sight — and didn't include Dr. Viviana's name alongside Dr. Pepper, Pastor Cal, and the two new experts — fans began asking questions. She then took to Instagram to break down what was going on.

"I have always stayed busy with meaningful projects in my professional and personal life," she wrote. She went on to say: "I have decided to focus more of that energy on new exciting opportunities to further my mission to help others in their intimate relationships."

She then dropped the biggest bombshell, saying, "I won't be returning to Married at First Sight next season but I am so grateful for my 7 seasons of unscripted TV Series with Kinetic Content. I believe in the MAFS process and in my colleagues and will continue to wish all of the upcoming participants the best."

Rumors about Dr. Viviana's departure began swirling in March 2022 among fans, but her exit wasn't confirmed until the new experts were announced and Dr. Viviana shared the news herself.

"It's a very emotional day, but I'm so grateful for this opportunity. I'm so grateful to have been a part of this process and to have been a part of bringing couples together in love and teaching individuals on how they can be the best partner to others — what to do and what not to do," she wrote on Instagram.

Under the series of Instagram posts that Dr. Viviana shared regarding her departure, many Married at First Sight stars wrote touching messages to the expert.

Season 9 star Iris Caldwell commented, "Honestly you were absolutely amazing! I am so blessed to have had you as a coach, my cheerleader, my therapist, my support!! Thank you much Dr. Vivi for everything. I mean I still reach out even now for advice so thank you for all your transparency STILL! Your biggest supporter."

Fellow Season 9 star Beth Bice chimed in with, "Good luck Dr. V — You are going to do such amazing things !!!"

This was also echoed by Season 11's Amani Randall, who commented, "Well wishes for future endeavors."

Since her departure, Dr. Viviana has gotten back into her work as a licensed relationship and sex therapist. She's currently on tour promoting her book The 4 Intimacy Styles: The Key to Lasting Physical Intimacy. She's also signed on as a resident intimacy expert for the intimate care and cleaning brand Bloomi.

While she has left the MAFS universe forever, she's still keeping close with her former cast mates, like Pastor Cal. She recently wished him a happy birthday on Instagram. In the comment section of the post, he thanked her, while also noting that she has been missed. "Thanks so much Viv. Miss your impromptu craziness," he said.