Masterchef Australia judge Jock Zonfrillo, 46, has died on the eve of the show's new season. Jock was a renowned chef as well as a judge on the popular cooking competition.
His restaurant, Orana in South Australia, was highly popular before it closed down in 2020. Jock's family confirmed the sad news in a statement shared on social media as they paid tribute to the Masterchef judge, reports the Mirror.
It read: "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.
Are you worried about the number of empty shops in the city centre? Let us know
"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." 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.
His death comes just as Masterchef Australia's 15th season was due to begin on Monday night, May 1. However, the show will not air in light of the judge's death. The show tweeted its decision alongside a tribute to Jock, which 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."
Jock's cause of death has not been shared. Meanwhile, a Victoria Police spokesperson told the Daily Mail Australia how they found the TV star's body at around 2am on Monday after they were called to do a welfare check. His death is not being treated as suspicious.
Meanwhile, tributes to the TV star have poured in on social media by fans as one wrote: "jock zonfrillo was a really essential presence on mainstream Australian television. vulnerable, frank, honest and unashamedly passionate. this is a huge loss, rest in peace".
Another added: "I am incredibly saddened to hear chef Jock Zonfrillo passed away yesterday. While most know him from MasterChef, Jock was an influential part of SA's hospitality scene. Restaurant Orana was known for showcasing native ingredients. Bringing the concept of new Nordic cuisine to SA."
"Stunned to hear that Jock Zonfrillo has passed away. What a massive loss," a third added. Jock was born in Glasgow to an Italian father and Scottish mother. His upbringing is said to have inspired his love of food.
He moved to Australia and opened Bistro Blackwood and Restaurant Orana, which was awarded as one of the world's best eateries before its closure in 2020. He began working in the industry from the age of 12 and, by the time he was 17, Jock worked in Marco Pierre White's restaurant.
Read next:
- Life on historic Nottinghamshire one-way street where you have friends instead of neighbours
- The major Nottingham student accommodation projects that will transform city
- 2,500 motorists fined on Nottingham's Canal Street while sign was missing
- Nottingham workers earning £5,000 less than national average
- The key races to watch out for in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire's 2023 elections
