Married at First Sight (MAFS) expert Mel Schilling has shared the heartbreaking news that her cancer has spread to the left side of her brain, and there’s nothing that doctors can do for her.
Mel was initially diagnosed with Colon cancer in December 2023, and the tumour was successfully removed, and she was given the all clear. However, in November 2024, small nodules were found in her lungs during a routine scan.
“Over the past two years, while filming MAFS, I underwent 16 rounds of chemotherapy and was later told I was eligible for a groundbreaking clinical trial specific to my gene type, due to start in March 2026. Once again, my optimism soared that I might beat this thing,” she began in an Instagram post.
“Over Christmas, however, I began experiencing blinding headaches and numbness down my right side. After many tests, I was told the cancer had spread to the left side of my brain and, despite subsequent radiotherapy sessions, my oncology team have now told me there is nothing further they can do.”
Mel said that she’s “still fighting”; however, daily activities have become extremely hard for her.
“I am relying on my beautiful family to look after me. I honestly don’t know how long I have left, but I do know I will fight to my last breath and will be surrounded by the love and support of my people.”
Mel finished the post off by thanking her fans for all the support they’ve given her over the years, and encouraging people to get checked if they suspect anything is wrong with their health.
“If I could leave you with one thing, it would simply be this: if something doesn’t feel right, please get it checked out. It might just save your life,” she wrote.
Mel Schilling will exit MAFS Australia after the 2026 season
In February, Mel announced that 2026 would be her final season on MAFS Australia, after working on the hit show since 2015.
“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,” she said in a statement.
While Mel didn’t specifically reference her health as the reason she was leaving the show, she did say she wanted to prioritise her time with her family.
“This hasn’t been a choice I’ve 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,” she said.
“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.”
Our thoughts are with Mel and her family during the difficult time.
Married at First Sight (MAFS) 2026 airs Sunday – Wednesday on Channel 9 and 9Now.
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