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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Entertainment
Katherine Heslop

Jock Zonfrillo's co-star Andy Allen pays tribute to renowned chef in special programme

MasterChef Australia judge Andy Allen will pay tribute to Jock Zonfrillo ahead of the latest series of the cookery show airing.

On Monday it was revealed that the Glasgow-born chef had died at the age of 46, hours before the 15th season of MasterChef Australia had been due to air.

With the support of his family, it has been decided the series launch will go ahead this evening on Network 10, with an hour-long tribute paid to Jock before the programme, in a special episode of The Sunday Project.

Channel Ten, which airs the show, said that Andy will be one of the "many of the world's most famous chefs" paying tribute to the dad-of-four and restaurant owners.

The tributes will air at 6.30pm Australian time, an hour before MasterChef.

Andy previously paid tribute to Jock on Instagram, saying: "When I met you 5 years ago I knew our lives were about to change forever," he began.

"What I didn't realise is how close Alex and I would become outside of the kitchen with you, Lauren and your kids.

"You've become such an inspirational and important part of our lives. Sure, you've taught me so much about food, but it's the lessons I learnt about what it means to be a great father, husband and friend that I'll take away from our time together and will last forever."

Jock died aged 46 (Getty Images for AFI)

Andy continued: "I'll miss the way you mentored me and every contestant that walked into the MasterChef kitchen, I'll miss you ordering the entire menu no matter how many dishes deep and making me eat every last bite."

Channel Ten announced MasterChef Australia will air today, after the premiere was pushed back following Jock's death.

A statement read: "With the full support of Jock Zonfrillo's family, MasterChef Australia will air at 7.30pm on Sunday, 7 May.

"It is with Jock in our hearts that we cherish this season and remember the charismatic and big-hearted Judge and Chef who we knew and loved,

"Jock will be remembered in the MasterChef Australia kitchen for years to come."

The network added the special edition of The Sunday Project will pay tribute to Jock.

The statement said: "With contributions from friends, he held closely, the show will honour Jock by reflecting on his personal and professional life in a celebration of his incredible achievements."

Jock's family confirmed the news of his death with a statement on social media on Monday.

It read: "With completely shattered hearts and without knowing how we can possible move through life without him, we are devastated to share that Jock passed away yesterday.

Jock was a celebrated chef (Instagram)

"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."

They continued: "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."

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