Married At First Sight star Mel Schilling dies aged 54 after cancer spread to her brain
Mel Schilling has died at the age of 54 (Kate Green/BAFTA/Getty Images for BAFTA)
Mel Schilling, best known as a relationship expert on Married At First Sight, has died at the age of 54, her husband shared on Tuesday (24 March).
The reality star appeared on both the Australian and UK versions of the show, working with cast members such as the series’ first ever trans participant Ella Morgan.
Schilling’s husband shared the sad news on Instagram, writing: “Melanie Jane Brisbane-Schilling passed away peacefully today, surrounded by love.
“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. 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.
(E4)
“This is a woman who became a new mum and a TV star at 42 — and nailed both.
“This is a woman who, through two years of chemotherapy, when she could barely lift her head from the pillow, never complained and never stopped showing courage, grace, compassion and empathy, and never missed a day of filming.”
Earlier this month, Schilling shared news of her health battle, saying she was diagnosed with colon cancer in December 2023. Sadly, in February 2024, nodules were found in her lungs too. Sadly, despite 16 rounds of chemotherapy and the promise of a “groundbreaking clinic trial” to start this month, she discovered the cancer had spread to her brain.
The tribute continued: “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.
“On behalf of our family and her incredible friendship group, thank you for the support from around the world.
“I also want to thank our wonderful MAFS family — John, Alessandra, Charlene, Roxy, and Sophie — for your kindness and compassion. To Lee, Louie, Susy, and Ian at Channel 4 / CPL, who went above and beyond for us, we will never forget it. To Sarah at InterTalent, not just an agent, but a true confidante. And to the wonderful Elizabeth Day — Mel’s podcasting partner and dear friend — thank you for your friendship and empathy.”
He finished: “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.”
E4 released a statement following the tragic news, saying: “All of us at Channel 4 are incredible saddened by the news of Mel’s death. Our thoughts and condolences are, first and foremost, with her family and loved ones.
“We’re privileged to be the channel that is home to Mel’s work, which was at the heart of Married At First Sight’s phenomenal success, both in the UK and Australia. It reflected so much about her – her fierce advocacy for other women, her passion for healthy relationships and her mission to unite people in love.
“Just as importantly, we’d like to pay tribute to Mel as a person. For many who work for Channel 4, Mel was not just a colleague but a friend, someone who radiated joy, warmth and optimism, who energised every room she walked into with humour and positivity.
“Everyone who knew her will miss all this about her and much more. We share in the sorrow that we’re sure many viewers will now feel at this terrible loss.”
Schilling is survived by her husband Gareth Brisbane, after they tied the knot on December 24, 2020. They share daughter Madison.
Share your thoughts! Let us know in the comments below, and remember to keep the conversation respectful.
