Married At First Sight expert John Aiken has delivered an emotional message to viewers on Wednesday night’s episode to honour the late Mel Schilling.
The relationship coach and therapist tragically died this week after a years-long battle with cancer.
The news has understandably rocked the cast and crew on the Channel 9 show, with John saying MAFS will never be the same again without Mel.
“She was someone that could light up a room,” he said in the opening seconds of the Dinner Party episode.
“She was full of joy, had a huge smile, and whenever she was on set, everyone lifted. It was such a delight to watch her shine.”
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He called her a “fighter”, a “leader”, and an “inspiration” for her incredible work ethic in face of such adversity.
“It’s not fair,” he added.
“I would like to send all thoughts and prayers to Gareth, her husband, and Maddie, her wonderful daughter.”
The emotional message sent chills across the country, and viewers said it was a beautiful tribute.
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Alessandra, John, and Mel have been working together on MAFS for the last six seasons. Source: Instagram/Alessandra Rampolla
“Poor John. He looks absolutely wrecked!” said one.
“That would have been hard to do so soon after the news but necessary for the show to actually go on tonight,” added another.
“I was expecting a written message, but not a video from John, or such a heartfelt and heartbreaking one at that,” wrote a third.
Wednesday night’s episode finished with a series of videos of Mel from the current and previous seasons of MAFS as a final tribute to her time on the show.
When news of her death was announced, Michael Healy, Nine’s executive director of entertainment, streaming and broadcasting, said the network was “deeply saddened”.
“She had a gift for connecting with people and helping them navigate life’s challenges,” he said.
“For years, she guided us through the complexities of the human heart with wisdom, honesty, and kindness.
“Mel was a big part of our family, and she will be greatly missed.
“Our hearts and deepest sympathies are with her husband Gareth, their daughter Maddie and her entire family during this incredibly difficult time.”
What happened to Mel Schilling?
The MAFS expert was diagnosed with colon cancer in December 2023.
She was given the all clear after undergoing chemotherapy and surgery to remove a tumour, but she recently revealed she wasn’t actually out of the woods.
“Unfortunately, in late February 2024 during a routine scan, small nodules were discovered in my lungs,” she said earlier this month.
“The cancer had metastasised and my world changed again in an instant.”
Over Christmas, she started experiencing “blinding headaches” and “numbness” down her right side.
After several tests, she was told the cancer had spread to the left side of her brain and there was “nothing further” that doctors could do.
Gareth heartbreakingly revealed on March 24 that his wife had died.
“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,” he said.
“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.
“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.
“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.
“Goodbye, my love. My one. Until we meet again.”
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