Married at First Sight dating coach Mel Schilling has been remembered as a truly magical woman and a radiant, shining light following her death at the age of 54.
Schilling, who starred on the reality TV show in her home country Australia and the UK, died on Tuesday, two years after being diagnosed with cancer.
Fellow MAFS UK relationship expert Charlene Douglas said she spent time with Schilling in her final days and would forever treasure the laughter, the memories and love we had for each other.
Australian co-star John Aiken expressed his devastation, saying, It is not fair that my partner in crime is gone. She was one of the good ones. I wanted to sit on our couch together forever.
Schilling's death was announced by her husband Gareth, who revealed she passed away peacefully today, surrounded by love. He wrote, To most of you, she was Mel Schilling - matriarch of MAFS and queen of reality TV. To Maddie and me, she was our wee Melsie: an incredible mum, role model, and soulmate.
He recounted how she used all of her remaining strength in her final moments to whisper a lasting message to them that would sustain him forever.
Friends, family, and colleagues have poured in heartfelt tributes, reflecting on her vibrant personality and the positive impact she had on their lives and countless others. Elizabeth Day, who co-hosted the 'How To Date' podcast with Schilling, described her as a radiant, shining light and a gift of friendship.
Others, like Tayah Aveling, who found love on the show, credited Schilling for making such impactful connections possible, affirming her as a pivotal force in their tales of romance. In remembering Schilling, many urge others to cherish life fully and love deeply.
