MasterChef Australia are said to be searching for Jock Zonfrillo's replacement after news of his heartbreaking death earlier this month aged 46.
The TV judge's shock death came on the eve of MasterChef Australia's 15th season, but the show did not air.
It is now believed Network Ten, who airs the show, are set to look for Jock's replacement as part of a "sombre process".
The 2024 season of MasterChef Australia will enter pre-production soon, with the show set to begin filming in August.
The new host will need to strike a good on-screen relationship with existing judges Melissa Leong and Andy Allen, but a number of names are already are being considered.
"That will be the main thing obviously because it was something that really earned Jock the position originally," a source told Daily Mail Australia.
"You have to remember that when Jock was cast he was a dark horse... he was a renegade in the industry and he wasn't what many expected in that role.
"But his chemistry with the others was great. And the new host will need that more than anything."
However, a Network 10 Spokesperson explained: "Casting for the next season of MasterChef Australia has not commenced. To suggest otherwise is completely false and misleading.”
There has been much speculation on who could be set to take on the role and leading the list is former MasterChef stars Dan Churchill and Hayden Quinn.
Hugh Allen and seafood guru Josh Niland are also tipped for the job as well as Danielle Alvarez, Joel Bickford, Alessandro Pavoni and Jordan Toft.
Another contender is Poh Ling Yeow, who made a surprise return to the show during the latest series to give the season 15 contestants their very first Mystery Box.
Following Jock's death, his family revealed they are "hurting" but "overwhelmed by the support" from fans.
The Scottish star, who was based in Australia, is survived by his third wife Lauren Fried and his four children Ava and Sophia – whom are from his first marriages – and Alfie and Isla – from his last marriage.
A special TV tribute aired in honour of Jock, where fellow MasterChef judge Andy Allen shared a message from Jock's wife Lauren Fried.
Andy said: "I saw Lauren and the kids last night, I went and cooked them some food and they just wanted me to say how much they can feel the support for Jock and themselves.
"They're hurting but it does help. They've been overwhelmed with how much support there has been for him and the family. They didn't know – just like you and I – it's been unreal to see how much support and where it's come from and who it's come from.
"So, yeah, they just wanted for me to say they feel it. It's tough, but they feel it," Andy added as he held back tears.
