Married At First Sight (MAFS) expert Mel Schilling has died aged 54 following a battle with colon cancer.
Schilling’s partner, Gareth, confirmed the news on Instagram on Tuesday evening, remembering the beloved reality TV star as “an incredible mum, role model, and soulmate”.
“Melanie Jane Brisbane-Schilling passed away peacefully today, surrounded by love,” he penned.
“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. It took all of her remaining strength, and that gesture summed up our wee Melsie perfectly. Even then, her only thought was for Maddie and me.
“This is a woman who became a new mum and a TV star at 42 — and nailed both.
“This is a woman who, through two years of chemotherapy, when she could barely lift her head from the pillow, never complained and never stopped showing courage, grace, compassion and empathy, and never missed a day of filming.
“To most of you, she was Mel Schilling — matriarch of MAFS and queen of reality TV. To Maddie and me, she was our wee Melsie: an incredible mum, role model, and soulmate.”
Gareth went on to thank their family, friends and all the fans who’ve offered Mel support throughout the years. He also shared a special thank you to their MAFS family.
“I also want to thank our wonderful MAFS family — John, Alessandra, Charlene, Roxy, and Sophie — for your kindness and compassion,” Gareth wrote.
“To Lee, Louie, Susy, and Ian at Channel 4 / CPL, who went above and beyond for us, we will never forget it.
“And to the wonderful Elizabeth Day — Mel’s podcasting partner and dear friend — thank you for your friendship and empathy.
“Life can be beautiful, and life can be incredibly cruel. But ultimately, life is fleeting, fragile, and tomorrow is promised to no one. If you can do anything to honour Mel, please live life to the full, love your people well, and try not to sweat the small stuff.
“I had 15 wonderful years with my soulmate, and it was the privilege of my life to be by her side. For that, I will be forever thankful.”
In 2023, Schilling was diagnosed with colon cancer after a tumour was discovered during a scan. In March of this year, she revealed that the cancer had spread to her brain.
Ahead of MAFS 2026, Schilling revealed that this year would be her last season as an expert.
Following her family’s devastating announcement, friends and fellow celebs have shared messages of love and condolences.
RIP Mel Schilling. You will always be our MAFS icon and star.
