Okay, you know how there are hardly any reality shows around these days, especially around love and dating?* Well, do we have the answer for you!
Based on the “seven-year itch” theory — that happiness in a romantic relationship declines after seven years — Seven Year Switch is “controversial!” It’s “real life!” The couples are “all straight!” and “all white!” They didn’t sell it on that, but they are. They’re all white, straight, they all have tattoos, and it’s really hard to pick them apart.
Here’s the concept: four couples whose relationships have foundered are split up and sent to live with another “like-minded” partner for two weeks. It will shock Australia, apparently, and the reason is: this isn’t any old Wife Swap. This is Wife Swap where they have to share a bed! Aiiiiieeeeee! *clutches pearls*
Apparently, experts call the concept “switch therapy”. Which experts, it’s not specified. Could be wig enthusiasts, or people who are really good at flicking switches, I’m not sure. I’m not a doctor.
“Will their experimental spouses be able to fill the void they’ve been yearning for, or will they discover that the grass isn’t always greener?” poses the promotional material.
Oh, here are our professionals, Jo Lamble and Peter Charleston. I assume they have some kind of authority to be doing this. They stride around looking important and poke around our couples’ homes.
Jo Lamble, one of the two resident psychologists on the show, told the Sydney Morning Herald that “switch therapy” is “not a thing”.