Mel Schilling, the beloved relationship expert from Married at First Sight in both Australia and the UK, has died at the age of 54 following a battle with cancer. Her passing was announced by her husband, Gareth Brisbane, on social media. Schilling was initially diagnosed with colon cancer in December 2023, which tragically metastasized to her lungs and subsequently to her brain.
"Live life to the full, love your people well, and try not to sweat the small stuff," Gareth Brisbane shared, conveying Mel Schilling's final message to him and their daughter.
Health Timeline and Diagnosis
Schilling's cancer journey began in December 2023 when she was diagnosed with colon cancer after a 5-centimeter tumor was discovered and successfully removed. Following the surgery, she was initially given a clear prognosis.
In late February 2024, a routine scan revealed small nodules in her lungs, indicating that the cancer had metastasized. She subsequently underwent 16 rounds of chemotherapy over the following two years.
Around December 2025, Schilling began experiencing severe headaches and numbness on her right side. Further medical evaluations confirmed that the cancer had spread to the left side of her brain. Despite subsequent radiotherapy sessions, her oncology team informed her that no further treatment options were available for the brain cancer. Schilling also noted her eligibility for a gene-type specific clinical trial, which had been scheduled to commence in March 2026.
In the period leading up to her death, Schilling reported increasing difficulty with daily tasks and a reliance on her family for support.
Career and Personal Life
Mel Schilling was a practicing psychologist for over two decades, beginning her consulting career in 1998. She joined Married at First Sight Australia in 2016 for its second season and later became an expert on the UK version in 2021.
Schilling married Gareth Brisbane in 2018 and became a mother at age 42. She is survived by her husband and their 10-year-old daughter, Madison. The family resided in London.
In February, Schilling announced her departure from Married At First Sight Australia, citing health challenges and the logistical difficulties of filming in Australia while residing in the UK as reasons to prioritize her family and health.
Public Health Awareness
Schilling had previously stated that she initially dismissed early symptoms of her colon cancer, attributing them to being busy or hormonal issues. She concluded her public announcements with a crucial message urging individuals to seek medical attention if they experience unusual or concerning symptoms.
Medical experts have emphasized the importance of recognizing potential signs of bowel cancer (also known as colorectal cancer). Gastroenterologist Professor Viraj Kariyawasam advised seeking medical attention for any symptoms persisting beyond four to six weeks, and immediately for profuse bleeding or rapid weight loss.
Key symptoms of bowel cancer include:
- Persistent changes in bowel habits (such as diarrhea or constipation).
- Blood in the stool or bleeding from the back passage.
- Ongoing abdominal pain or bloating.
- Unexplained fatigue or iron deficiency.
- Unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite.
- Symptoms of anemia, including unexplained tiredness, weakness, or breathlessness.
Bowel cancer is a significant health concern in Australia, estimated to be the fourth or fifth most commonly diagnosed cancer and a leading cause of cancer-related deaths, particularly in individuals aged 25 to 44. Australia’s National Bowel Cancer Screening Program offers free tests every two years for individuals aged 45 and over, with the eligibility age lowered from 50 in 2024.
Tributes
Schilling's husband, Gareth Brisbane, announced her passing and shared that in her final moments, she conveyed a message to him and their daughter. He encouraged others to "live life to the full, love your people well, and try not to sweat the small stuff" in her honor.
Networks Nine (Australia) and Channel 4 (UK) issued statements expressing sadness and support for Schilling and her family. Colleagues from Married At First Sight, including John Aiken and Alessandra Rampolla, offered condolences and shared memories. Former contestants also shared tributes, recalling Schilling's supportive and kind character during their time on the show.