Mel Schilling, a long‑time relationship expert on the Australian version of "Married at First Sight," passed away in March at the age of 54.
Schilling had been a fixture on the program for twelve seasons, guiding contestants through the complexities of instant marriage and later appearing on five series of the British version.
She was first diagnosed with colon cancer in December 2023 and underwent sixteen rounds of chemotherapy while filming. Doctors later confirmed the cancer had metastasized to her brain.
Prior to her death, Schilling stepped back from the show to focus on her family and health, a decision made during the production of the latest series.
During filming of the most recent UK season, her absence was filled by fellow expert John Aiken, who continued the panel for the remainder of the series.
The Australian franchise has announced that a new relationship coach, known professionally as Dr Lurve, will join the panel for the 2027 season.
Dr Lurve, whose real name is Brigitte Zonta, is a psychologist and sexologist who has built a reputation for explaining complex relationship dynamics in accessible terms.
She will work alongside long‑time expert John Aiken and sexologist Alessandra Rampolla on the upcoming thirteenth series.
The addition of Dr Lurve is expected to bring fresh insights into modern dating and to challenge contestants to align their words with their actions during key moments of the show.
