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Meet the experts on Married at First Sight Australia

The E4 reality show is back for season ten

mafsa series nine
Francesca Shillcock
Senior Features Writer
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If you love reality TV, then chances are you're familiar with Married at First Sight Australia. The E4 programme became a huge hit in the UK during the coronavirus lockdown and now the dating show is back for a tenth season. 

But while the couples seem to take up most of the attention of the viewers, the show's three experts often act as the glue that hold the entire experiment together. From matching the couples at the beginning, to offering their support and words of wisdom during the often tense commitment ceremonies. So who are they? Meet the three experts below…

WATCH: MAFS Australia expert Mel Schilling spoke to HELLO! for a Christmas campaign

Married at First Sight Australia expert John Aiken

John Maxwell Aiken is often thought of as the voice of reason on the show and often gives his blunt, but fair, views on the situation. Viewers might be surprised to learn that John was once a professional cricketer who played for the Auckland and Wellington teams in New Zealand.

While playing professionally, John also trained as a relationship expert and ran a private practice in New Zealand and in Australia.

MORE: Married at First Sight Australia: which couples are still together?

MORE: MAFS UK real-life wedding costs revealed – and they're so unexpected

John Aiken and partner© Photo: Instagram

John is a former professional cricketer

The expert's time on Married at First Sight is not his only experience in TV, as he's appeared on ABC documentary Making Couples Happy and Making Families Happy. He's been married to wife Kelly from 13 years and the couple have two children together.

Married at First Sight Australia expert Mel Schilling

Like her colleague John, Mel Schilling is also a relationship and marriage expert. Throughout her career, she's offered support and advice on a range of different issues including dating, relationships, career advice, and divorce. 

Mel was a practising psychologist for 20 years before she became a relationship expert and now works with women to build their courage and confidence.

Mel is also happily married to her husband Gareth and the couple have a daughter, Maddie.

Mel Schilling with partner and child© Photo: Instagram

Mel is a relationship expert

Married at First Sight Australia expert Alessandra Rampolla

Alessandra is a certified clinical sexologist from Puerto Rico who has over 20 years of experience helping couples maintain sexual chemistry. She replaced Dr Trisha Stratford in the eighth season of the reality show.

Alessandra is very well qualified with a master's degree in marriage and family therapy as well as a number of other degrees and certifications in the field of sexology. 

Alessandra Rampolla poses for selfie© Photo: Instagram

Alessandra Rampolla is a sexologist

She believes that "sexual expression and compatibility are vital in building, nourishing and maintaining healthy, romantic relationships."

Alessandra has hosted her own radio show, is the bestselling author of five books and has appeared as a regular guest on shows such as Dr. Phil.

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