EXCLUSIVE: Jamie Marinos didn’t find love on Married At First Sight after splitting from husband Dave Hand but there’s one thing that she says “makes the pain worth it”.

Despite the heartbreak she’s suffered, Jamie told 9Entertainment that she’s most grateful for the community of fans she’s built since appearing on the show.

From followers who have related to her relationship struggles to those that have applauded Jamie for bravely baring her skin, fans have championed the bride.

“I definitely think the MAFS community is one of the best ones. I’ve met some beautiful, beautiful people that have said the most amazing things and it kind of makes all your painful moments worth it,” the 28-year-old said.
Jamie, 28, told 9Entertainment that the community she’s built has “made the pain worth it”. (Instagram @jamiemarinos)
“I’ve had so people come up to me saying that they’ve experienced something similar, or they left their boyfriend because of my experience,” Jamie said.

“It’s crazy I’ve had mums thank me for being bare-skinned and showing my acne on TV.

“Just when you think, ‘Oh, God, I wish I didn’t have to experience some of the pain or the backlash it makes it worth it when you impacted someone’s life in a positive way.”

Jamie captured Australia’s hearts during Season 12 of MAFS where she was married to Dave Hand.

They had been one of the strongest couples early on but faced problems when Dave admitted his feelings weren’t progressing as fast as Jamie’s. Despite committing to one another at Final Vows the pair revealed they had split for good at the Reunion.

Jamie explained that despite having stronger feelings she pushed for the break-up.

“I want someone who’s going to love me and show up… without asking,” she said at the Reunion.

In Jamie’s eyes, that person wasn’t Dave.
Jamie was married to Dave Hand on Season 12 of MAFS. They broke up a week before the Reunion. (Nine)
Speaking to 9Entertainment, Jamie confirmed that following their break-up she and Dave are “still no contact”.

“It is disappointing because there was a point where I thought Dave would just be in my life regardless, forever,” she said.

Weeks on from the end of MAFS, there’s been speculation of a blossoming romance between Jamie and co-star Eliot Donovan.

Jamie addressed their relationship, telling 9Entertainment their connection “is not a publicity stunt”.
Jamie addressed her relationship with co-star Eliot saying it was “not a publicity stunt”. (TikTok @not_eliotd)
As for what’s next for Jamie, she’s remaining open-minded.

“I’m definitely going with flow, I do love living in Melbourne but I’m very much open to opportunities,” she said.

“I’d love to work more on TV or radio but I’ve loved the whole experience, I’ve enjoyed building this amazing community and I just want to keep meeting people and see where life takes me.”