reality tv

The reality TV moment that revealed one of the biggest relationship deal-breakers in 2025.

There's always a million and one rumours, debates, and viral moments surrounding Love Is Blind. From awkward pod conversations to dramatic altar rejections, the show thrives on jaw-dropping moments. But this time, the internet is buzzing about a clip from the season 8 finale that touches on something deeper than just mismatched personalities or cold feet.

In the season 8 finale, Sara Carton said "no" to her fiancé Ben Mezzenga — not because she didn't fancy him or because he'd done something unforgivable like message his ex (we're looking at you, every other reality dating show). Rather, she rejected him because of their political differences, and it says a lot about the role that political views play in our lives now.

Watch Sara and Ben's wedding ceremony. Article continues after video.


Video via Instagram/loveisblindnetflix

"I love you so much, but I've always wanted a partner to be on the same wavelength. So today I can't," Sara told Ben at the altar, before making the decision to leave.

Talking to her family after the ceremony, Sara explained that while she loved their emotional connection, she couldn't overlook their fundamental disagreements on issues like Black Lives Matter and LGBTQ+ rights.

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"I remember I asked him about, like, Black Lives Matter, and I'm no expert, but like, when I asked him about it, he was like, 'I guess I never really thought too much about it,'" she said. "That affected me, especially in our own city, like, how could it not? How did it not make you think about something?"

Sara went on to explain that she watched a sermon from Ben's church and described it as "traditional" when it came to its views on sexual identity. When she asked Ben about it, he didn't have much to say.

"I told that to Ben, and he [didn't] really have much to say about it, you know? I want somebody to think about that stuff," Sara said.

Love Is Blind Sara and BenAn very awkward wedding ceremony. Image: Netflix.

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Sara's decision has divided the internet. While many have agreed with Sara's decision, citing political stance as a huge factor in a long-term relationship, others have called her out for being close-minded to political differences.

Let's be real — the days of "we just don't discuss politics at the dinner table" are long gone. While our parents' generation might have happily married someone with opposing political views (tax brackets and foreign policy debates be damned), today's world feels different.

For many of us, political values aren't just opinions about who should be prime minister — they're deeply connected to our personal identities, moral compasses, and everyday lives. When your partner dismisses important political movements as "just politics," they're not simply sharing a different perspective — they're rejecting fundamental parts of how you see the world and the people you care about.

Love is Blind Ben and SaraFor many of us, political values aren't just opinions. Image: Netflix.

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Look, not every couple needs to vote for the same party or agree on every policy detail. Many relationships thrive despite some political differences. But there's a massive difference between disagreeing about tax reforms and disagreeing about whether your gay friends deserve equal rights or whether racial justice matters. As Sara demonstrated, it's not just about ticking the same boxes on a ballot or even being an expert on the matter — it's about whether your partner actively engages with issues you care deeply about. It's about respect.

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The conversation around Sara and Ben's breakup highlights something fascinating about dating in 2025: political compatibility has become a non-negotiable for many. Dating apps now feature filters for political views alongside height preferences. First-date conversations often include subtle political probing. It's not about avoiding heated arguments over Christmas dinner — it's about building a life with someone who shares your fundamental values.

Personally, I wouldn't dream of marrying someone who couldn't engage in meaningful discussions with me about issues that matter. We don't need to be political analysts or social justice experts — I'm certainly not — but I do need a partner who genuinely cares enough to listen, learn, and sometimes challenge me. Your wedding day shouldn't be the first time you discover your partner doesn't share your core beliefs.

Love is blind Ben and SaraWould you marry someone who disagrees with you politically? Image: Netflix.

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You might not agree on absolutely everything (I love coriander and my partner can't stand it, the monster!), but for me, the fundamental values must align. Lead with compassion. Show me you care about other people's experiences even when they're different from your own. That's the bare minimum.

Because when your partner's politics directly contradict your deepest beliefs, can you ever truly feel seen, supported, and understood? Sara's decision wasn't just reality TV drama — it was an honest acknowledgement that sometimes, love isn't blind. And perhaps it shouldn't be.

Feature Image: Netflix.

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