Married at First Sight expert Mel Schilling will be leaving the Channel 9 reality program after 12 seasons. The UK-based MAFS veteran cited “health challenges”, with the demands of the role “no longer sustainable” while she lives in the UK.
She has been an expert on MAFS since season two and has helped couples navigate their issues throughout after being thrown together at the altar. Mel currently lives in London with her husband Gareth and their 10-year-old daughter, Maddie.
In December 2023, Mel revealed she had been diagnosed with colon cancer, undergoing surgery to remove a tumour which she nicknamed ‘Terry’.
“After 12 extraordinary seasons, I have made the heartfelt decision to step away from my role,” Mel said.
“This hasn’t been a choice I’ve made lightly.
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“In recent years, my health challenges and living in the UK spending up to three months a year away from my family is no longer sustainable.
“It has become clear that I must make a change that puts my family, health and time at the very centre of my life.
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“What began as a small social experiment has grown into a global phenomenon, and I have felt truly privileged to be part of that journey.
Adrian Swift, Channel 9’s Head Of Content, Production and Development, said the network “understands the pull of her home in the UK and wish her continued success on MAFS UK”.
Mel said she was “not leaving with sadness”, but a “deep sense of gratitude”.
“Stepping away from the Australian series is the right move for my future, though I look forward to continuing my work with Married at First Sight UK. Thank you for being part of this chapter with me,” she added.
Mel announced in 2025 that she had gone into remission.
Mel announced her cancer diagnosis just before Christmas 2023. Photo: Instagram.com/melschilling
She had previously opened up about the toll treatment had taken on her.
“I’m going through chemo, I’m on my third cycle now and I’m just starting to feel a bit sick,” Mel told Magic FM.
“I was saying earlier it sort of feels like being hungover, like I’ve been drinking all night.”
Mel said she’s had to make some adaptations to her busy schedule, which included being an expert on both MAFS Australia and MAFS UK, as well as a public speaker and an ambassador.
“This thing is not beating me. I’m here to fight, I just need to make some adaptions,” she said.
“Time is [important]. Building space in my schedule because… I love my work and just kind of doing my passions, so for me it’s very tempting just to say yes to everything.”
We are yet to hear any details on who will replace Mel on the MAFS couch.
While fans were devastated that she’ll no longer be one of the experts on the annual show, they backed her for looking after herself.
“You’ll be missed but you always have to do what’s best for you,” one said.
“Your health is always number one priority. You have left a wonderful legacy in Australia,” added another.
“The grace, kindness and pizzazz that you brought to our screens is a gift to us all. Always cheering you on,” wrote a third.
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