Married At First Sight expert Mel Schilling announces shock departure from series after 12 years
Mel is a huge personality on the showMarried At First Sight expert Mel Schilling has announced her shock departure from the Australian version of the show after 12 years.
Mel has been on the Australian version of the show for the last 12 years, and has become a firm fan favourite over that time. But now, she is saying goodbye to the E4 show.
In an emotional statement to her Instagram followers, Mel confirmed her exit, admitting that her health and family now have to come first.
Mel Schilling quits Married at First Sight
Taking to Instagram, Mel wrote: “After 12 extraordinary seasons, I have made the heartfelt decision to step away from my role as an expert on Married At First Sight Australia. This hasn’t been an easy choice I have made lightly.
“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.”
Mel continued: “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. I am incredibly grateful to the fans, the production team, and my fellow experts for their trust and passion over the years.
“I am leaving, not with sadness, but with a deep sense of gratitude for everything we have achieved together.”
However, fans should be relieved to hear that Mel will be continuing with the UK version of the show.
She concluded: “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.”
Fans flood star with support
Immediately fans and stars were absolutely heartbroken at the news, and wanted Mel to know how much they appreciated her.
Her MAFS Australia colleague, John, penned: “Such a privilege to sit beside you, Mel, for a decade onwards my friend. To new beginnings. Big love.”
Lauren Dunn, who appeared in 2024 on the show, wrote: “Thank you so much, Mel. I adore you.”
Contestant Domenica Calarco commented: “Mel, I will never forget your kindness to me during some of the toughest moments in the experiment. You will be missed. The show won’t be the same without you.”
What cancer did Mel have?
Heartbreakingly, in 2023, Mel was diagnosed with colon cancer, after being told it was probably just indigestion by the doctors.
And it was actually while she filmed the Australian version of Married At First Sight that Mel first experienced the symptoms.
She underwent surgery to remove a 5cm tumour. And thankfully, last year, she informed fans that she was finally in remission.
Read more: ‘They are risking everything!’ Second Marriage at First Sight has been confirmed and it sounds wild!
