MAFS expert Mel Schilling's huge cancer update amid season 12 rumours

Let’s face it, the Australian version of Married At First Sight simply wouldn’t be the same without its three relationship experts John Aiken, Mel Schilling and Alessandra Rampolla. The trio have been matching participants together since season 8 in 2021 when Alessandra replaced Trisha Stratford, while John and Mel have worked alongside one another since the show’s second season in 2016.

Fans often describe the threesome as the most “iconic” part of the reality show, which is why they were left concerned when rumours emerged that Mel wouldn’t be returning for season 12. The TV personality was noticeably absent from the hens' party filmed last month, with Alessandra appearing solo to meet the new group of brides.

RELATED:

• MAFS 2025 forced to do 're-shoots' following major setback: 'No element of surprise'

• MAFS 2025: What we know about the brides and grooms so far

• MAFS 2025 wedding chaos as bushfire disrupts filming: 'Total mess'

While production for the new season is now well underway, with more than half of the 2025 participants having tied the knot, Mel has finally confirmed that she will be returning to the series.

Taking to Instagram this week, the UK-based star shared a photo of herself with her husband Gareth Brisbane and their daughter Maddie alongside the caption: “Chemo done, Australia here we come #MAFSAUSEASON12”

Mel announced in December that she had been diagnosed with stage three colon cancer and subsequently underwent surgery to remove her tumour. She then shared in April that she was undergoing her third cycle of chemo and was “starting to feel a bit sick”, but celebrated her final round last week.

Mel is expected to fly into Sydney in the next few days to begin filming the season 12 dinner parties alongside John and Alessandra later this month.

However, seeing as she wasn’t in Australia during the matchmaking process, it will be interesting to see if she is included in any footage of the typical pre-wedding interviews and group discussions about the couples.

SHOP:

• The simple ingredient that will keep you warm all winter long

• The body acne treatment customers are raving about

• Win a trip to Paris Fashion Week worth $45,000

According to Daily Mail, the show’s producers have been “nothing but supportive” during her cancer battle and have offered her flexibility with the show’s filming schedule.

“Mel has been incredibly strong through her treatment,” an insider shared. “The producers have gone above and beyond to ensure she has all the support she needs. They've been very accommodating with her schedule, allowing her to zoom into meetings from London to get to know the participants.”

The publication adds that Mel has been “actively involved in the matchmaking process” and is “super happy” with the support she’s received.

Want the latest celebrity news? Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.