Scots MasterChef Australia judge Jock Zonfrillo secretly battled bowel cancer before his death, according to reports.
The renowned chef was found dead on Monday at the age of 46 as tributes flooded in for the TV personality. Jock's death is not being treated as suspicious.
The restaurateur, who was based in Melbourne, Australia, was a judge on the popular cooking competition. He also owned a highly popular restaurant in South Australia before it closed in 2020.
The Glasgow-born judge had reportedly been receiving bowel cancer treatment from June 2021, a month after it was detected. "No one in his circle is aware of what he is going through. Neither colleagues or friends," it was claimed at the time.
The source told Daily Mail Australia : "He has not wanted anyone to know as he deals with this tough journey. He is coping poorly with chemo treatment, and the effects it is having."
The source added that Jock underwent chemotherapy while filming the second series of Celebrity MasterChef in 2021. At the time, the publication contacted Network Ten, which airs MasterChef, but they denied the reports.
The chef made no mention of his battle with cancer in his memoir Last Shot.
Jock's devastated family confirmed the sad news of his death in a statement shared on social media as they paid tribute to the much-loved MasterChef judge.
"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," the heartbreaking 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."
Former colleagues of Jock rushed to pay tribute to the star, including Gordon Ramsay and Jamie Oliver. Fellow Scots chef Gordon wrote: "Saddened by the devastating news of Jock Zonfrillo's passing.
"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 Gx."
Jamie shared a photo of them together and said: "In total shock to hear of the sudden death of chef Jock Zonfrillo. Had the best time working with him for this year’s MasterChef Australia.
"Jock was very generous with his time and spirit in the show and will be so very missed. Sending heart felt love and condolences to all of his family, friends and the MasterChef team and contestants."
He is survived by his third wife, Lauren Fried, and his four children: Ava and Sophia from his first two marriages, and Alfie and Isla with Lauren.
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