'MAFS' beloved Mel Schilling makes 'heartfelt decision'
Schilling says she's leaving "not with sadness but a deep sense of gratitude" for being part of the show.
Married at First Sight was Australia’s top-ranked program on Monday, with a total audience of 1.776 million - which is why it may come as a surprise that one of its beloved regulars is stepping away from it.
Popular relationship expert Mel Schilling, who's been with the show for 12 seasons, made the announcement to her fans on Tuesday morning in a "heartfelt decision."
Mel Schilling. Image: Instagram
MAFS' Mel Schilling steps away from the show
In a moving Instagram post - a compilation of her favourite moments over the years - Schilling explained that her decision came after careful consideration, citing ongoing health challenges and the strain of splitting her life between Australia and the UK.
"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.
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"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."
'It's hard to imagine the couch without Mel'
Tara McWilliams, Director of Content, Endemol Shine Australia said in a statement:
"It’s hard to imagine the couch without Mel. From the moment she joined the experiment, Mel brought an authenticity and passion that resonated deeply with millions of MAFS viewers, both here and abroad. Her ability to both challenge and champion our participants has helped shape the heart and evolution of the series.”
“We are forever grateful for all that she’s brought to the show, and while we will miss her expertise, warmth and unmistakable presence, we wholeheartedly support her decision to prioritise her life in the UK with her family, wishing her every happiness".
Feature Image: Nine
