Mel Schilling, known for her role as a dating coach on the reality show Married at First Sight, has passed away at 54 after a battle with cancer.
I probably first recognized Jillian Schilling from Married at First Sight Australia. She joined the show back in 2016 and honestly, she became a really important part of everything that happened. After that, I saw she was also giving advice on the UK version too!
In December 2023, Schilling shared that she had been diagnosed with colon cancer. Despite this, she continued filming Married at First Sight while undergoing 16 rounds of chemotherapy. Recently, she announced that the cancer had unfortunately spread to the left side of her brain, even after preparing for a new clinical trial.
Schilling announced her departure from the show, explaining that her energy is dwindling as she continues her health battle. She expressed gratitude for the amazing support she’s receiving, adding that she remains determined to keep fighting.
Married at First Sight star Mel Schilling died “surrounded by love”
On March 24, 2026, Melanie Jane Brisbane-Schilling passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loved ones, her husband Gareth Brisbane announced on her official Instagram account.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Mel Schilling (@mel_schilling1)
He shared that in her last moments, she used her remaining strength to whisper a message to their daughter, Maddie, a message he said would comfort him forever. He explained that this act perfectly captured her selfless nature, as even then, her only concern was for Maddie and him.
“This is a woman who became a new mum and a TV star at 42 – and nailed both,” he continued.
Despite enduring two years of grueling chemotherapy that often left her incredibly weak, this woman remained remarkably positive and strong. She consistently demonstrated courage, kindness, and understanding, and amazingly, never missed a day of work.
Many of you knew her as Mel Schilling, the beloved figure from Married at First Sight and a prominent face on reality television. But to her daughters, Maddie and me, she was simply ‘Melsie’ – an amazing mother, someone we looked up to, and a cherished friend.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Mel Schilling (@mel_schilling1)
Gareth expressed his gratitude to the fans for their support, and also thanked his fellow participants on Married at First Sight – John, Alessandra, Charlene, Roxy, and Sophie – for their kindness and compassion.
He expressed his gratitude to Lee, Louie, Susy, and Ian at Channel 4/CPL, as well as Sarah at InterTalent and Elizabeth Day, who is both Mel’s podcasting collaborator and a close friend.
Gareth went on to say that life is full of both joy and hardship, but it’s also very short and unpredictable. He asked everyone to remember Mel by truly living their own lives, cherishing loved ones, and not worrying about trivial things.
I was so lucky to spend fifteen amazing years with the love of my life, and being with her was the greatest honor. I’ll always cherish those years. Goodbye, my beloved. You were my everything, and I’ll see you again someday.
People are sharing heartfelt messages remembering the beloved presenter, including one from Michael Healy, a director at Nine Network responsible for entertainment, streaming, and television.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Married At First Sight (@mafs)
In a statement posted on the Married At First Sight and Channel 9 Instagram pages, Nine’s David Healy expressed deep sadness over the passing of Mel Schilling.
Mel was a truly special coworker and friend. She had a remarkable ability to connect with others and support them through difficult times. For many years, she offered wise, honest, and kind guidance as we all dealt with life’s ups and downs.
We’re deeply saddened by the loss of Mel, who was like family to us. We send our heartfelt condolences to her husband, Gareth, their daughter Maddie, and everyone who loved her as they cope with this painful time.
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2026-03-24 14:51