Trending Now: MAFS UK stars ‘heartbroken’ by ‘queen’ Mel Schilling’s tragic death – Fans React

Tributes have flooded in from colleagues and former contestants following the death of Married at First Sight expert Mel Schilling at the age of 54

Married at First Sight star Mel Schilling has died at the age of 54, after it was revealed last week that her cancer had spread to her brain. Her family shared the heartbreaking news today (March 24) in a statement posted on her Instagram account.

Husband Gareth Brisbane described Mel as “an incredible mum, role model, and soulmate”, while saying she “never stopped showing courage, grace, compassion and empathy” while undergoing chemotherapy. He told how her final act was to “whisper a message for Maddie and me that will sustain me for the rest of my life”.

Mel was widely recognised for her work across both MAFS UK and MAFS Australia, joining the UK series in its second season in 2016. She quickly became a standout figure on the show, earning a loyal following for her direct, no-nonsense approach and genuine commitment to helping couples navigate their relationships.

Additionally, her dynamic with fellow experts, Paul C Brunson and Charlene Douglas, was also a highlight for viewers, with their natural chemistry and conversation adding to the show’s appeal.

Beyond the screen, Mel’s warmth, resilience and sense of humour left a lasting impression on those who worked with her, which has been reflected in the wave of tributes shared since news of her passing.

Charlene Douglas, who worked alongside Mel as the show’s sex therapist, paid tribute to her ‘MAFS queen’ on Instagram. The 44-year-old shared a video of herself, Paul C Brunson and Mel dancing together on set.

The caption read: “I’m both devastated and heartbroken to hear of the passing of my MAFS queen and friend Mel. I had the pleasure of spending time with Mel in her last days and will forever treasure the laughter, the memories and love we had for each other.

“Mel’s love for life, jokes and of course dancing will forever stay in my heart. What I wouldn’t give to be dancing to Beyoncé with you right now.” Charlene finished her tribute by writing: “Sleep in perfect peace Mel. Love you.”

Anna Williamson, the dating expert from Channel 4’s Celebs Go Dating, who worked closely with Mel over the years, also shared a heartfelt message on Instagram.

Posting a series of photos of the two of them together, Anna described her friend as a “fighter till the end”.

Alongside the images, she wrote: “What a woman. A fighter til the end, an end that was far far too soon. All of our Channel 4 family are grieving the loss of Mel.

“She touched so many people both on and off screen. As her E4 ‘stable mate’, and with a shared passion for coaching others while balancing life as TV mums, we naturally gravitated towards each other. We had a deep respect for one another and became close friends.”

Anna continued: “Mel remained optimistic throughout her cancer diagnosis and her fight to recover. She never complained in her messages and was always focused on fighting for her Gareth and Maddie. So many people were inspired by Mel and benefited from her fearless approach to life, her work, and her family, and I know that legacy will live on.

“My heart especially goes out to her beautiful family. I can only imagine the pain of their loss. The love and pride she had for Gareth and Maddie was immeasurable. A fiercely proud wife and mother. Rest now, my friend. Thank you for the always cheerful voice notes, just because.”

Former MAFS cast member Laura Vaughan, who appeared on the 2023 series, also shared a tribute, posting an unseen photo of herself with Mel.

Reflecting on her experience, she wrote: “Darling Mel. To say you were an inspiration to many would fall incredibly short. You were a beacon of light to all who knew you, loved you and watched you around the world. To know you is to be in awe of you.

“I remember us talking about your cancer diagnosis backstage on a campaign shoot, you grabbed my hand and with a wink you said ‘I’m a fighter, don’t you worry’ and that’s exactly what you were.

“I feel so privileged to have met you, worked with you and experienced firsthand the kindness you gave in abundance. It embodied you. This world is a lonelier place without you in it. Thoughts are with your family and those close to you. Rest easy now.”