New Expert Joins 'Married At First Sight Australia' Season 2027

Marryam Chehelnabi will join the upcoming 2027 season of Married At First Sight Australia as a new expert, Channel Nine announced Thursday at the network's Upfronts event in Sydney. Chehelnabi, known for her work on Couples Therapy Australia, will join returning experts John Aiken and Alessandra Rampolla.

Chehelnabi's qualifications include a Master of Science in Medicine from the University of Sydney and a Master of Counselling and Applied Psychotherapy. The network teased that the 2027 season will feature significant drama, including "sharp twists and emotional confrontations," alongside traditional MAFS elements like "awkward first meetings, fiery dinner parties and high-stakes commitment ceremonies."

The franchise will continue its partnership with streaming service Stan for "MAFS: After The Dinner Party," which features hosts Jules Lund, Brittany Hockley, and Laura Byrne providing participant debriefs and commentary.

The addition of a new expert comes six months after the death of original MAFS expert Mel Schilling, who passed away in March at the age of 54. Schilling had been diagnosed with colon cancer in 2023, and in the months leading up to her death, revealed the cancer had spread to her lungs and brain.

Fellow experts Aiken and Rampolla have spoken about the impact of Schilling's absence. Aiken described filming the new season as "bittersweet," acknowledging the difficulty of proceeding without his longtime co-star. Rampolla added that the atmosphere behind the scenes has changed significantly, but expressed optimism about creating "something new."

Mel Schilling was a psychologist and relationship expert who joined Married At First Sight Australia in its early seasons. Her husband Gareth confirmed her passing in a statement, noting her focus on her family in her final moments. She was first diagnosed with a lemon-sized tumor in 2023, underwent surgery, and was initially given the all-clear. However, the cancer recurred and spread.

Schilling became a mother and a television star at age 42. Throughout her treatment, she continued to film the show, demonstrating resilience and dedication, according to her husband. The show's producers and cast members paid tribute to her courage and compassion following her death.