The future of MasterChef is in limbo as Jock Zonfrillo’s loved ones come to terms with the celebrity chef’s death.
Police made the tragic discovery after being called to an address on Lygon Street in Carlton for a welfare check. at 2am.
The latest season of MasterChef, which is understood to have completed filming, was due to premiere last night but was stopped from going to air out of respect for Zonfrillo.
His death is not being treated as suspicious, police said. He is survived by his wife Lauren Fried and his four children.
Zonfrillo’s family confirmed his sudden death in a statement, saying they were “devastated” and overwhelmed”.
“With completely shattered hearts and without knowing how we can possibly move through life without him, we are devastated to share that Jock passed away yesterday,” the statement read.
“So many words can describe him, so many stories can be told, but at this time we’re too overwhelmed to put them into words.
“For those who crossed his path, became his mate, or were lucky enough to be his family, keep this proud Scot in your hearts when you have your next whisky.
“We implore you to please let us grieve privately as we find a way to navigate through this and find space on the other side to celebrate our irreplaceable husband, father, brother, son and friend.”
Network 10 has not said what will happen now with the latest season of MasterChef.
“Jock was known to Australians as a chef, best-selling author, philanthropist and MasterChef judge but he will be best remembered as a loving father, husband, brother and son,” a statement from Network 10 And Endemol Shine Australia said.
“Determined and talented and with plenty of grit, Jock was born in Glasgow to an Italian father and a Scottish mother, which meant his formative years were heavily influenced by two strong cultures and it was his obsession with food and desire for a new pushbike that at just 12 years old fuelled Jock to knock on kitchen doors looking for a job.
“Jock’s charisma, wicked sense of humour, generosity, passion and love for food and his family cannot be measured.
“He will be greatly missed.”
Zonfrillo became one of the youngest culinary students to do an apprenticeship at Scotland’s famed The Turnberry Hotel at just 15, and by 17 he was working alongside Marco Pierre White.
The Scottish presenter joined MasterChef in 2019, hosting alongside chef Melissa Leong and former contestant Andy Allen.
In 2021, he released a memoir titled Last Shot, detailing his years as a heroin addict and his culinary career in London before moving to Australia in 2000.
Former MasterChef contestants and fellow restaurateurs have expressed their shock at Zonfrillo’s sudden death.
Chef Jamie Oliver, who appears in this season of MasterChef Australia, said he is in “total shock” at the news.
“Jock was very generous to me with his time and spirit in the show and for that I was really grateful,” he posted.
“I can’t believe I’m writing this … Sending heartfelt love and condolences to all of his family, friends and his second family the MasterChef team and contestants xxx. Love Jamie.”
“Saddened by the devastating news of Jock Zonfrillo’s passing,” superstar chef Gordon Ramsay said.
“I truly enjoyed the time we spent together on MasterChef in Australia.
“Sending all my love to Lauren and the family in this difficult time.”
“Such a shock! Love to his family. Sleep well my friend. I’m floored!” chef Colin Fassnidge wrote.
“I’m so shocked… rest in peace chef, my heart and condolences to loved ones,” Reynold Poer said.
Minoli De Silva shared: “This is actually devastating and my brain doesn’t know how to process this. Such a sad day. Will miss you mate.”
Rock legend Jimmy Barnes described Zonfrillo as “like a brother”.
TV presenter and cook Jane de Graaf said Zonfrillo was a “champion of beautiful food”.
“Such very sad news. Terrible to lose such a champion of beautiful food and a mentor to so many. My thoughts are with his family, friends and colleagues,” she said.
