Between finding a fanbase of millions and having her heart broken on national TV, Married At First Sight’s Jamie Marinos has had a rollercoaster year.

But she’s come out the other side of it thriving.

The Season 12 bride took to Instagram to reflect on her journey “back to herself” after a whirwind start to 2025.
Jamie was a fan-favourite bride on MAFS 2025. (Instagram @jamiemarinos)
Jamie shared a video of her laughing addressing fans’ commenting “you look happier now”.

“Thanks, I cried it all out, trauma-dumped to ChatGPT, called my friends and family daily, filled my days with things that filled my cup, and surrounded myself with people who felt like sunshine – until I did too,” she wrote on the video.

Jamie elaborated in her caption, saying it had been “a long way back to myself”.

“And even now, the work never ends – but it’s not as heavy anymore. It’s healing. And I can appreciate this incredible journey, lows and all,” she concluded, hashtagging her post with #selflovejourney.
Jamie shared how she ‘healed’ after a wild year. (Instagram @jamiemarinos_)
Jamie’s candidness got a huge reaction from her 325,000 followers, including her MAFS bestie Awhina Rutene, who could relate to her unusual use of AI.

“Love crying to ChatGPT 😂” Awhina reacted.

“I like how it validates me every step of the way,” Jamie replied.

Other followers showered support upon the bride – and thanked her for the life hacks.

“I had no idea I could do this with GPT… you were always my favourite such a gorgeous person inside and out and obviously hilarious 😜 you will find someone that meets your love levels,” a fan wrote.

“So happy to see you glowing and thriving 🙂 sending all the love,” said another.

Jamie’s MAFS journey

Jamie captured Australia’s hearts during Season 12 of MAFS.

She and ex-husband Dave Hand had been one of the strongest couples early on and despite committing to one another at Final Vows, the pair revealed they had split for good at the Reunion.

At the Reunion, the bride broke out in tears after becoming frustrated that Dave wasn’t being transparent about his lack of feelings for her.

Although they initially remained friends, Jamie confirmed to 9Entertainment after the Reunion that they were no longer in contact.
Jamie was married to Dave during the experiment. (Nine)
“Unfortunately Dave and I don’t speak anymore,” Jamie said.

“I think Dave and I both really wanted to keep everything amicable and have a relationship, and I’ve tended to always have good relationships with everyone I’ve been with in the past,” she continued.

“Unfortunately when you have the opportunity to watch a relationship back and really see behaviour for what it is… I had to take a step back and say, ‘I need to respect myself, know my worth and I don’t believe everyone deserves to have access to me.’