Former MAFS Contestants Share Touching Memories of Mel Schilling's Off-Camera Compassion
Former Married at First Sight participants have opened up about the authentic warmth and gentle nature displayed by dating coach Mel Schilling behind the scenes, following her tragic passing at age 54. Schilling lost her long and intermittent battle with cancer this week, after first being diagnosed with colon cancer in December 2023. Earlier this month, the mother revealed the disease had spread to her brain, leaving no further treatment options available.
Jessika Power Recalls Regular Support During Difficult Times
While the reality television series has developed a reputation for dramatic confrontations and providing a platform for ambitious influencers, previous cast members have highlighted how Schilling's character consistently defied expectations. Jessika Power, a controversial figure from the 2019 season, disclosed that the dating coach maintained regular contact throughout her time on the show, offering crucial support during challenging moments.
"Mel used to message me a lot," Power told news.com.au. "I was greatly bullied throughout the country … being hated … and she reached out to me and made sure I was OK."
Schilling first appeared as a dating expert on MAFS in 2016, frequently starring alongside colleagues John Aiken and Alessandra Rampolla. The trio provided firm feedback to contestants at regular intervals during the program. Power emphasized that Schilling's authenticity was unmistakable even when cameras were not rolling.
"She was as kind and understanding and patient as she comes across on the TV," Power continued. "There'd be moments where I had a really rough time and the cameras would be wrapped up but she'd hold my hand and squeeze it and say, 'You did so well.' That stuck with me. I was a young girl. And having someone who comforted me … it was really good."
Lasting Connections and Personal Check-Ins
Power confirmed that Schilling continued to stay in contact even after her season concluded, often sending text messages to check on her mental wellbeing. The former cast member recited one of the final messages she ever received from the late star, which was an attempt to arrange a meeting abroad.
"Oi, love! Give me a shout when you're back in the UK – drinks required… Living in London. Buzz me when you're back," the text read.
Schilling served as a dating coach on the United Kingdom edition of MAFS for five consecutive seasons. Power verified that the pair eventually managed to reconnect in person briefly while Schilling was filming the UK version.
"We caught up. It was very brief, she was filming MAFS UK," Power added. "Mel always said to me, she would just say, 'Checking in – how you doing? I know how tough media attention can be but at least Rebel Wilson loves our show! Take some time for yourself. It's a busy life being the breakout star of a reality show.' It made me feel human again. She was always extending a hand. That's the type of woman she was."
Domenica Calarco and Al Perkins Reflect on Schilling's Humanity
Domenica Calarco, another former contestant, also reflected on Schilling's profound humanity, recalling how the late star comforted her during a difficult period when an intimate photo was circulated during the 2022 season.
"I will never ever forget Mel's kindness to me on the couch after the whole photo scandal and everything that happened," she said. "She was and always will be a shining light of that show."
Calarco's co-star Al Perkins echoed similar sentiments, noting that despite a clear separation between coaches and contestants following intense MAFS dinner parties, Schilling consistently encouraged him to remain authentic.
"Mel would always stop to have a chat with me and would always say, 'Never change, Al', and it brings a tear to my eye just thinking about it," he shared.
Tributes from Family and Colleagues
The television personality's death was announced by her husband Gareth Brisbane on Tuesday evening, who praised his wife's ability to balance television commitments with parenting their daughter Maddie.
"In her final moments, when I thought cancer had taken away her ability to speak, she ushered me closer and whispered a message for Maddie and me that will sustain me for the rest of my life," he wrote. "It took all of her remaining strength, and that gesture summed up our wee Melsie perfectly. Even then, her only thought was for Maddie and me."
Schilling's fellow Australian-based dating coaches offered moving tributes to the beloved figure. Alessandra Rampolla expressed deep sorrow, writing: "My heart is shattered. I feel so incredibly grateful for the time we shared last week… to look you in the eyes, to hold your hand, and to say the things that truly mattered. That is a gift I will carry with me for the rest of my life."
John Aiken appeared tearfully on morning television to reflect on the tragic news, stating: "It won't be the same now. It's very hard for me to get my head around her not being there." Aiken described his colleague as a "fighter" who "never complained." He revealed he was granted a final opportunity to say goodbye to his co-star and friend just days before she passed away.
"I did get a chance to see Gareth and Mel one last time this week and it was a very emotional time, a very special time. I'm glad that I got that opportunity," he disclosed.
