Just weeks after announcing she would step away from Married at First Sight, relationship expert Mel Schilling has shared a devastating update about her health, revealing her cancer is now terminal.
The 54-year-old posted an emotional message to Instagram confirming that after nearly two years of treatment, doctors have told her there are no further options available.
Schilling first revealed in December 2023 that she had been diagnosed with colon cancer after a tumour was discovered during a scan.
In a lengthy message to followers, she reflected on the moment the disease was first found.
“In December 2023, I was diagnosed with colon cancer after a tumour the size of a lemon was discovered during a scan. ‘Terry,’ as I called him, was successfully removed, and I was initially given the all clear – that many of you already know.”
However, a routine scan just months later revealed the cancer had already spread.
“Unfortunately, in late February 2024, during a routine scan, small nodules were discovered in my lungs. The cancer had metastasised, and my world changed again in an instant.”
Mel Schilling and her family in an image posted to her Instagram account.
Continuing to work through treatment
Despite the diagnosis, Schilling continued working on the hit Nine reality series, undergoing extensive treatment while filming.
“Over the past two years, while filming MAFS, I underwent 16 rounds of chemotherapy and was later told I was eligible for a groundbreaking clinical trial specific to my gene type, due to start in March 2026. Once again, my optimism soared that I might beat this thing.”
But over Christmas, new symptoms signalled another devastating development.
“Over Christmas, however, I began experiencing blinding headaches and numbness down my right side. After many tests, I was told the cancer had spread to the left side of my brain and, despite subsequent radiotherapy sessions, my oncology team have now told me there is nothing further they can do.”
“Hearing those words changes everything.”
Schilling said the disease has progressed rapidly and that everyday life has become increasingly difficult.
“So that’s where I am now. My light is starting to fade – and quickly. But I am still here, still fighting, and surrounded by the most incredible love. Simple tasks have become incredibly difficult, and I am relying on my beautiful family to look after me.”
“I honestly don’t know how long I have left, but I do know I will fight to my last breath and will be surrounded by the love and support of my people.”
Message to fans
Schilling also thanked fans who have supported her since she first shared her diagnosis.
“At the outset of this journey, so many of you sent the most wonderful messages of support. They have meant more than I can ever properly express and have helped shape the mindset I’ve needed to keep fighting. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart.”
She also urged followers to take their health seriously.
“If I could leave you with one thing, it would simply be this: if something doesn’t feel right, please get it checked out. It might just save your life.”
Nine responds
In a statement, Nine Entertainment said the network was devastated by the news.
“The entire Nine family is deeply saddened by the news regarding Mel Schilling’s health. She is a woman of extraordinary depth, kindness, and an unshakeable spirit.”
“Mel’s honesty and her ability to face life’s hardest moments with such strength and openness is something we admire.”
“She isn’t just a colleague; she is family. Our thoughts, love, and strength are with Mel, her husband Gareth, and her daughter Maddie during this incredibly difficult time. Mel, we are all behind you.”