Reality TV

MAFS EXCLUSIVE: Expert Mel Schilling weighs in on which couples won’t survive in the real world

''These two have some work to do if they are to make it long term.''
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There have been a lot of ups and downs for the couples on Married At First Sight. This week, as they head into final vows, we’ll find out whether they want to test out their relationships in the real world and try to last the test of time.

This year, expert Mel Schilling has broken down her thoughts on each couple’s compatibility with TV WEEK, and is feeling confident that we’ll see some stay the course.

One of those pairings is Olivia and Jackson.

“They were a strong couple from the moment they laid eyes on each other,” Mel, 50, says. “It was great to see them work as a team.”

Mel believes the challenges that arose in the experiment could cause issues for Olivia and Jackson down the line.

(Image: Nine)

But although they may have what it takes, Mel believes the challenges that arose in the experiment could cause issues for them down the line if they don’t have some real, honest conversations about their relationship.

While Domenica’s feud with bride Olivia almost caused her to leave the experiment, it only made her connection with her husband Jack stronger.

“What a team! We saw Dom and Jack supporting each other and remaining steadfast in their loyalty to each other throughout the experiment,” she says.

“I believe they have built a strong foundation for a future relationship,” Mel says of Jack and Dom.

(Image: Nine)

“As they faced each challenge, they checked in with each other, spoke very openly and showed absolute respect for each other.

“I believe they have built a strong foundation for a future relationship – as long as they can keep the spark alive.”

Another couple with plenty of sexual chemistry is Ella and Mitch.

But while they’re a match physically, they struggle to connect on an emotional level.

“Moving forward, it will be important for Ella to continue to speak up, express her needs and ensure that she gets what she needs on an emotional level,” Mel explains.

“Moving forward, it will be important for Ella to continue to speak up.”

(Image: Nine)

“For Mitch, learning to connect with his own emotions and finding new ways to express them to Ella will be beneficial.”

The real question comes down to the experiment’s most tumultuous couples; Selina and Cody, and Tamara and Brent.

Each week, we’ve seen a different challenge for them to overcome.

For Selina and Cody, it’s been a slow burn.

“These two have some work to do if they are to make it long term,” Mel admits.

Mel Schilling has broken down her thoughts on each couple’s compatibility.

(Image: Nine)

“They had a tumultuous time in the experiment, often based on their own miscommunication and lack of deep understanding of each other.

“But this developed positively throughout the experiment, and they showed some willingness to learn.”

Finally, Tamara and Brent have flipped between love to hate with each episode.

But while the pair have heated arguments, they can also be incredibly playful and passionate.

“Their relationship ebbed and flowed in response to the challenges around them.

Mel says Tamara “could benefit from letting her walls down”.

(Image: Nine)

“Brent was more open about his feelings than Tamara, and it was difficult to tell how she really felt about him,” Mel shares.

“Tamara could benefit from letting her walls down and showing greater acceptance for who Brent is as a person.

“And for Brent, tolerance and patience will be required to enable Tamara to open up at her own pace.”

As the final vows approach, we’re keen to see which couples will make it past the experiment and out into the real world.

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Want more on Married At First Sight season nine? Check out the links below:

Is Married At First Sight real or fake? Let’s examine the evidence

How much do Married At First Sight contestants get paid in Australia?

What a transformation! These Married At First Sight stars are unrecognisable from their days on the show

MAFS’ Al Perkins spills on his previous relationships and what the show has taught him

MAFS EXCLUSIVE: Jackson Lonie accidentally lets it slip if he’s still with Olivia Frazer before blasting the show’s editing

MAFS fans throw their support behind Domenica Calarco following the nude photo scandal: “Olivia has gone too far”

Carolina who? Married At First Sight’s breakout star Dion Giannarelli reveals his current relationship status

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