“My heart is shattered,” said Alessandra Rampolla, reflecting on the loss of her close friend and colleague, Mel Schilling, who died at the age of 54 after a prolonged battle with colon cancer.

Schilling was first diagnosed with the disease in December 2023, and despite initial treatment, her cancer returned after a brief remission in January 2025. Tragically, it metastasized to her brain in February 2024, leading to her untimely death on March 24, 2026.

Rampolla, who had worked alongside Schilling for five years, shared her grief in a heartfelt tribute on March 25, stating, “You were so much more than a colleague.” The bond they formed during their time on the reality show Married At First Sight was evident, as both women navigated the challenges of their careers in psychology.

Mel Schilling was not only a practicing psychologist for over 20 years but also a beloved television personality, appearing in 12 seasons of the Australian version of Married At First Sight. Her contributions to the show and her profession left a lasting impact on many.

John Aiken, another colleague, expressed his sorrow, stating, “I am heartbroken, devastated, and finding it hard to breathe.” He described Schilling as a guiding force and a role model in their field.

Despite her health struggles, Schilling prioritized her family, announcing earlier in 2026 that she would step back from filming to focus on her well-being and her daughter, Maddie, who is now 10 years old.

In her final moments, Mel was surrounded by love, a testament to the relationships she built throughout her life. Rampolla concluded her tribute with a poignant message: “You will be deeply, deeply missed… but never forgotten, Chica.”

As the community mourns the loss of Mel Schilling, her legacy as a psychologist and television personality will continue to inspire many.

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