Married at First Sight (MAFS) relationship expert Mel Schilling has announced that she’s decided to quit the show for good. She has worked on the hit TV show since 2015, and the current season of MAFS Australia will be her last.
“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.
Mel was diagnosed with bowel cancer in December 2023. After a gruelling year of surgery, six months of chemotherapy and a number of lifestyle changes, Mel shared that she was officially in remission. However, Mel said the experience made her value time with her family more than ever, which played into her decision to leave MAFS Australia.
“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.”
“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.”
Mel added that she will continue her role as a relationship expert on MAFS UK.
“I am leaving not with sadness, but with a deep sense of gratitude for everything we’ve achieved together. 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.”
MAFS crew weigh in on Mel Schilling’s decision to leave
Mel’s time on MAFS was celebrated by her co-workers, including Nine’s Head Of Content Adrian Swift, who raved about the mark Mel made on the show.
“She has celebrated every high and met every challenge over the last 12 seasons of MAFS but her enthusiasm to find the best match for hundreds of Aussies has remained undiminished.”
“All of us at Nine hugely value her contribution to the nation’s most-watched television series but we understand the pull of her home in the UK and wish her continued success on MAFS UK.”
Endemol Shine Australia’s Director of Content, Tara McWilliams, said that the team supports Mel’s decision to be based in the UK.
“We are forever grateful for all that she’s brought to the show, and while we will miss her expertise, warmth and unmistakable presence, we wholeheartedly support her decision to prioritise her life in the UK with her family, wishing her every happiness”.
Married at First Sight (MAFS) 2026 airs Sunday – Wednesday on Channel 9 and 9Now.
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