An acclaimed Glasgow-born chef who went on to become a judge on MasterChef Australia has died aged 46.
Jock Zonfrillo passed away on April 29 a statement issued by his family has confirmed.
The chef, born Barry Zonfrillo, began working in kitchens as a youngster, becoming an apprentice at the Turnberry Resort at the age of 15 and later working under Marco Pierre White, reports the Daily Record.
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Jock detailed in his 2021 autobiography The Long Shot that he had problems with drugs in his late teens. He later relocated to Australia, opening his own restaurant, Restaurant Orana, in Adelaide in 2013.
His cooking earned him huge plaudits from Australia's food writers and he then joined Masterchef Australia in 2019. However, his businesses were later hit with financial trouble and closed in 2019 and 2020.
In a statement, his family said: “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. 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 in his family, keep this proud Scot in your hearts when you next have a whisky.”
A new series of Masterchef Australia was due to air this week but has been postponed. Broadcasters Network 10 and producers Endemol Shine Australia issued a joint statement paying tribute to the chef and judge.
It read: "Network 10 and Endemol Shine Australia are deeply shocked and saddened at the sudden loss of Jock Zonfrillo, a beloved member of the MasterChef Australia family. Jock passed away in Melbourne yesterday. MasterChef Australia will not air this week.”
Tributes have been paid to Zonfrillo by fans and fellow chefs on social media. Masterchef Australia competitor Reynold Poernomo wrote: "I’m so shocked… rest in peace chef, my heart and condolences to loved ones."
Irish chef Colin Fassnidge wrote: "Such a shock, love to his family. Sleep well my friend, I’m floored."
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