Married at First Sight dating coach Mel Schilling has sadly passed away at the age of 54, her husband shared in a heartfelt message on Instagram.
Mel, who had been a much-loved part of the show since 2016, was diagnosed with cancer in December 2023. Earlier this month, she revealed that the illness had spread to her brain.
Her husband Gareth said she “passed away peacefully, surrounded by love.”
“To many of you, she was Mel Schilling — a guiding voice on MAFS and a beloved figure on TV,” he wrote. “To Maddie and me, she was our precious Melsie — an incredible mum, a role model, and my soulmate.”
He shared that even in her final moments, Mel used her remaining strength to whisper a message to him and their daughter that he will carry with him forever. “Even then, her focus was on us,” he said.
He described Mel as a woman of remarkable strength and heart — someone who embraced motherhood and a thriving TV career later in life, and who faced two years of chemotherapy with courage, grace, and deep compassion for others.
“Life can be both beautiful and incredibly hard,” he added. “If you’d like to honour Mel, live fully, love deeply, and don’t let the small things take away from what truly matters.”
“I had 15 wonderful years with my soulmate. It was the greatest privilege of my life to stand beside her. I’ll always be grateful.”
“Goodbye, my love. Until we meet again.”
Mel first joined Married at First Sight in Australia before becoming a familiar face to UK audiences on E4. She stepped away from the Australian series last month after 12 seasons.
In a tribute, Channel 4 said they were “deeply saddened” by her passing, remembering her not only as a valued colleague but as a friend who brought warmth, positivity, and energy to everyone around her.
“She had a genuine passion for helping others find love and for supporting women,” the statement said. “She lit up every room she entered with her kindness and humour.”
Mel had first sought medical advice after experiencing severe stomach pain, and later received a diagnosis of colon cancer. Despite undergoing 16 rounds of chemotherapy, she continued filming and supporting others through her work.
Production company CPL Productions also paid tribute, remembering her as more than just a presenter — but a true friend whose impact will be felt for years to come.
She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, colleagues, and all who were touched by her warmth and spirit.
