Mel Schilling, the relationship expert best known for her role on the reality dating show Married at First Sight (MAFS), has died at the age of 54. The Australian star, who appeared on both the Australian and UK versions of the programme, passed away on Tuesday, according to a statement from her family.
Schilling had announced in March that her cancer had spread and that doctors could no longer offer further treatment. In a statement, her husband Gareth said she died 'surrounded by love' and paid tribute to her courage and grace throughout her illness.
'Melanie Jane Brisbane-Schilling passed away peacefully today, surrounded by love,' he wrote. '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.'
Schilling joined the MAFS panel in 2015 and became a beloved figure on the show, known for her warmth and insight. She underwent 16 rounds of chemotherapy and radiotherapy while continuing to film, and had recently stepped back from the Australian version after 12 seasons.
Tributes have poured in from fellow TV personalities, including Fearne Cotton, Alison Hammond and Love Island star Ekin-Su, as well as former MAFS contestants who credited Schilling with helping them find lasting love. Author Elizabeth Day, who co-hosted the How To Date podcast with Schilling, described her as 'a radiant, shining light'.
Channel 4, which broadcasts the UK version of MAFS, said Schilling 'radiated joy, warmth and optimism'. Her husband concluded: '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.'
