Married At First Sight UK contestant slammed as ‘cheap’ behaviour at altar gives viewers the ick before series even begins

An eagerly-awaited preview of the incoming series of Married At First Sight UK has gone viral online for all the wrong reasons.

So much so, that many fans of the show have subjected one of this year's contestants to colossal criticism, after he was seen pulling a prank on his future - and visibly-unimpressed - bride.

In the controversial clip, viewers of the much-loved dating series are able to see 28-year-old mechanic Kieran awaiting the arrival of his future Mrs at the end of the aisle.

It quickly becomes apparent, however, that the groom had made the dubious decision to pull a prank on 30-year-old dog walker Kristina, who MAFS UK's official 'relationship experts' had chosen as his 'true match'.

In the clip, the Geordie joker could be seen waiting patiently for Kristina to emerge as he tried to hide his prank.

Kristina's bridal party can then be seen filing into the church's pughes, with several taking one look at their gal pal's future parter and being left utterly disgusted.

He then raises a finger to his lips, as if imploring with the guests to remain silent on his prank, something which many members of the audience weren't too pleased about.

When Kristina finally arrives down the aisle, her future hubby smiles, showing off a set of broken and rotting false teeth.

Kieran's antics haven't gone down too well with viewers. (Channel 4)

Though she initially laughs at her groom's smile, she quickly becomes upset after seemingly wondering whether they might be real.

"Are you alright, are you ok? What's your name?" he enthusiastically asks.

"These teeth. What the f**k?" the bride can then be heard exclaiming in a voice-over.

Giving a glimpse into the reasoning for his prank, Kieran tells viewers: "I think the teeth could make us look a little bit immature. I'm a little bit nervous to see how it goes.

"This could really end up bad. I just want to know if this girl's fun."

And by the sounds of things, many viewers of the teaser are in total agreement with the disgruntled bride, with some describing Kieran's behaviour as an 'ick'.

"The fact he would do that is an instant ick," one penned in the comments after E4 shared the cringe-worthy clip on social media.

Viewers can't wait for the new series to land. (Channel 4)

Another added: "Being able to take a joke is very different from putting up with immaturity. I think that's hilarious but definitely isn't appropriate under those circumstances."

"No thanks! Reminds me of something my ex would do and that’s why he’s my ex! Constantly p*ssing around and loving being the centre of attention," a third continued.

"I would have turned around and walked out," another admitted.

One thing is definitely clear, however - viewers cannot wait for the new series to land in September.

"Wait! Is this from the new series?" one begged.

Another continued: "SCREAMING!! I cannot wait for this!!"