Married At First Sight (MAFS) star and relationship expert Mel Schilling has died at the age of 54 after a battle with cancer. Her husband, Gareth Brisbane, confirmed the news on Instagram, describing her as a 'soulmate' and 'incredible mum' to their 10-year-old daughter, Maddie.
Schilling was first diagnosed with colon cancer in December 2023. In March, she revealed that the cancer had spread to her brain, and her medical team informed her that further treatment was not possible. Despite her illness, she continued working on MAFS until February, when she stepped away to focus on her family and health.
In his emotional tribute, Gareth shared that Schilling's final moments were spent thinking of her family. 'In her final moments, when I thought cancer had taken away her ability to speak, she ushered me closer and whispered a message for Maddie and me that will sustain me for the rest of my life,' he wrote. He praised her strength, courage, and compassion, noting that she never missed a day of filming despite undergoing chemotherapy.
Schilling's career spanned over a decade, during which she became a beloved figure on MAFS, known for her warmth and expertise. Colleagues and former contestants have paid tribute to her, highlighting her kindness and impact on their lives. Tristan Black, a season 11 contestant, described her as a 'rock' during filming, while fellow expert John Aiken called her a 'dear friend' and expressed his devastation at her passing.
Schilling met her husband Gareth when she was nearly 40, after spending most of her 30s single. They married in 2020 following a commitment ceremony in Bali. The couple welcomed their daughter Maddie via IVF when Schilling was 42, after experiencing a miscarriage. Gareth's tribute emphasized her role as a devoted mother and partner, as well as her professional achievements.
The outpouring of grief from fans, colleagues, and former contestants underscores Schilling's enduring legacy in the reality TV and relationship coaching worlds. Her husband's heartfelt message has resonated widely, capturing the essence of her life and the love she shared with her family.