In a disappointing update for fans of the season’s sweetest slow-burn romance, Rachel Gilmore and Steven Danyluk have reportedly gone their separate ways just one to two weeks after choosing each other at Final Vows.

Multiple insiders close to the production (including sources for Refinery29 Australia, Now To Love, New Idea and Daily Mail) confirm the 35-year-old bride and 34-year-old groom ended their relationship shortly after leaving the experiment. While they appeared stronger than ever on screen — with Steven even declaring he could see himself falling in love — real-world logistics quickly got in the way.

Their journey on MAFS 2026 was one of the most heartwarming stories of the season. Starting with an awkward wedding day where Steven hesitated to kiss Rachel due to a lack of immediate physical chemistry, the couple faced early challenges around intimacy and communication. Yet they stood out for their willingness to work through issues openly. Experts praised their growth, and by the later episodes, Steven was making grand declarations while Rachel spoke excitedly about a future together, including moving in.

They successfully navigated the “Grass is Greener” challenge, with Rachel affirming: “I’ve chosen Steven. That’s my hubby, and I’m very happy with that.” Heading into Final Vows, they exchanged emotional words and left the experiment as one of its most authentic success stories — or so it seemed.

However, the gap between filming (which wrapped months earlier) and airing proved too much. Insiders say the breakup happened when Steven failed to make concrete plans to visit Rachel or maintain momentum post-show. “Rachel gave everything to that relationship and everyone saw Steven start to come around at the end,” one source shared. “But the nail in the coffin was Steven not making any effort to see her or plan ahead.”

At the Reunion Commitment Ceremony, experts reportedly questioned Steven’s intentions and commitment level. Post-split, Steven has been spotted enjoying nightclub outings with fellow cast member Joel Moses, while Rachel was seen looking cosy on a night out with Big Brother Australia star Bruce Dunne — sparking light speculation about new connections.

Neither has made an official public statement (likely due to production contracts), and they still follow each other on Instagram — a common neutral move after MAFS breakups.

Rachel and Steven’s story resonated deeply because it felt real: two people who had been single for over a decade, learning to communicate and grow together rather than relying on instant fireworks. In a season full of explosive drama, their slow-burn connection offered hope. Sadly, it also proved once again that what works under the MAFS spotlight doesn’t always translate to everyday life, where distance, schedules and differing readiness for commitment become major hurdles.

While Stella Mickunaite and Filip Gregov are rumoured to be one of the season’s rare lasting successes (possibly even engaged), Rachel and Steven join the majority of couples who don’t make it beyond the experiment.

MAFS fans, how are you feeling about this news? Were Rachel and Steven your favourite couple this season? Do you think Steven got cold feet, or were the real-world challenges simply too big? Does Rachel deserve someone who matches her effort and investment?