MAFS expert Mel Schilling reveals terminal cancer diagnosis
She's released a statement to inform her fans
Last updated 5 hours ago
Married At First Sight UK expert Mel Schilling revealed back in December 2023 that she'd been diagnosed with colon cancer, with the relationship expert urging her followers to get any symptoms checked, after she 'ignored the signs'.
Over one year later in January 2025, Mel appeared on Lorraine, where she's confirmed her cancer was in remission, but as of March 2026, the 54-year-old has issued a heartbreaking update, revealing she's now been diagnosed with terminal cancer.
Posting on her Instagram page on 12th March 2026, Mel wrote: 'In December 2023 I was diagnosed with colon cancer after a tumour the size of a lemon was discovered during a scan. “Terry,” as I called him, was successfully removed and I was initially given the all clear — that much many of you already know.
'Unfortunately, in late February 2024 during a routine scan, small nodules were discovered in my lungs. The cancer had metastasised and my world changed again in an instant. 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.
'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.
'Hearing those words changes everything.
'So that’s where I am now. My light is starting to fade — and quickly. But I am still here, still fighting, and surrounded by the most incredible love. Simple tasks have become incredibly difficult and 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.
'At the outset of this journey, so many of you sent the most wonderful messages of support. They have meant more than I can ever properly express and have helped shape the mindset I’ve needed to keep fighting. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart.
'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.
'These two beside me are my everything.
'With love and gratitude, Mel'. (sic)
Following Mel's news, E4 has also released a statement, revealing MAFS Australia expert John Aiken has stepped in to replace Mel for the upcoming 2026 series of MAFS UK, which is currently filming.
The post read: 'All of us at Channel 4 are immeasurably saddened by the news about Mel's health, and are sending all of our love and support to Mel and her family.
'Over five series of Married at First Sight UK, and twelve series of Married at First Sight Australia, Mel has become a hugely valued and much-loved part of the Channel 4 family; to many of us she is a friend as well as a colleague.
'Her wisdom, warmth, humour and kindness shine through, and these qualities mean that everyone involved in MAFS, from the producers and contributors, to the viewers, love and respect her as much as we do.
'MAFS UK is currently filming and, with Mel's blessing, her good friend and fellow MAFS Australia expert, John Aiken, has done us the great favour of stepping in for her for this series. If anyone would like support, please find some helpful organisations and a link to donate to Stand Up To Cancer in our bio.'
Back in February, Mel announced she would be leaving her role on MAFS Australia, after 12 huge years.
She told her fans: '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.
'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.
'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'.
Following the sad and shocking news, many MAFS contestants from both the UK and Australian series have sent their well-wishes.
Ella Morgan wrote: 'This is heartbreaking. Mel has changed so many people’s lives, through awareness and incredible advise on MAFS, Mel is the heart of MAFS and always will be. Myself and so many others are so lucky to have Mel and the privilege of working with and knowing her. Sending all my love to Mel, her loved ones and everybody who knows Mel both personally and professionally. ❤️'.
Amy Kenyon added: 'My gosh Mel I’m so sorry, sending you so so much love and strength You are an amazing woman, a true inspiration 🥺❤️', with MAFS Australia star Domenica Calarco adding: 'Mel, my words have failed me. I am so devastated to hear this. I am sending you all the love and healing energy and will keep you and your beautiful family in my prayers 🤍 love always Dom & Dove xxxxxx'. (sic)
Comedian and actress Dawn French wrote: 'What a nourishing, bright light you are. Sending tons of this..❤️❤️❤️❤️', with Kerry Katona commenting: 'Sending you so much strength and love ❤️'. (sic)
Mel's MAFS UK co-star Charlene Douglas then commented: 'We love you Mel! ❤️🙏🏾🙏🏾'.
Our thoughts are with Mel and her family.