Married At First Sight star Mel Schilling has died aged 54

Married At First Sight star Mel Schilling has sadly passed away at the age of 54.

The heartbreaking news was announced in an emotional statement shared by her family on Instagram.

"Melanie Jane Brisbane-Schilling passed away peacefully today, surrounded by love," they wrote. "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."

"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."

Describing her as an extraordinary woman, her family shared that Schilling was a TV star and a new mother at 42, excelling in both roles.

"This is a woman who, through two years of chemotherapy, when she could barely lift her head from the pillow, never complained and never stopped showing courage, grace, compassion and empathy, and never missed a day of filming," they penned.

Schilling's loved ones remembered her as “an incredible mum, role model, and soulmate,” extending gratitude to those who had supported her through her journey.

"On behalf of our family and her incredible friendship group, thank you for the support from around the world," they said. "I also want to thank our wonderful MAFS family - John, Alessandra, Charlene, Roxy, and Sophie - for your kindness and compassion."

"To Lee, Louie, Susy, and Ian at Channel 4 / CPL, who went above and beyond for us, we will never forget it. To Sarah at InterTalent, not just an agent, but a true confidante. And to the wonderful Elizabeth Day - Mel’s podcasting partner and dear friend - thank you for your friendship and empathy."

In a final message, the family urged others to cherish every moment.

"Life can be beautiful, and life can be incredibly cruel. But ultimately, life is fleeting, fragile, and tomorrow is promised to no one. If you can do anything to honour Mel, please live life to the full, love your people well, and try not to sweat the small stuff," they penned.

"I had 15 wonderful years with my soulmate, and it was the privilege of my life to be by her side. For that, I will be forever thankful. Goodbye, my love. My one. Until we meet again," the statement concluded.

The Australian dating expert was first diagnosed with colon cancer in December 2023.

After undergoing surgery to remove the tumour, she was initially given the all-clear. However, the cancer later returned, spreading to her lungs and brain.

Schilliing recently revealed that her cancer had become terminal, and she was uncertain how much longer she had left.

Featured image credit: Ben Montgomery/ Getty