Tributes have been paid to a top chef who rose from life in South Ayrshire to become one of the globe's most acclaimed kitchen names.
Jock Zonfrillo, a judge on MasterChef Australia, has died aged 46, his family have confirmed.
Gordon Ramsay and Jamie Oliver are among those to have led tributes today following the tragic news.
In a statement on Facebook, Zonfrillo’s family asked the public to let them “grieve privately” and described him as an “irreplaceable husband, father, brother, son and friend”.
His death is not being treated as suspicious.
After leaving school aged 15, Zonfrillo took on an apprenticeship at Turnberry Hotel before moving on to other high-end kitchens during a storied career.
His struggles with addiction from his early years - he first tried heroin as a teenager - were openly documented in his 2021 memoir Last Shot, where Zonfrillo described his journey from “reckless drug addict” to one of Australia’s best-known chefs.
He became renowned the world-over and worked with top names such as Ramsay and Oliver - both of whom have led tributes.
Oliver said Zonfrillo would be “so very missed” and sent his “heartfelt love and condolences” to his family and friends, and those who worked on MasterChef.
He added: “I’m in total shock to wake up to the sudden death of chef Jock Zonfrillo.
“We had the best time working together for this year’s MasterChef, I can’t tell how good it was to work with him!
“Jock was very generous to me with his time and spirit in the show, and for that I was really grateful.”
Ramsay also recalled working with the late chef, tweeting: “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.”
A family statement posted on Zonfrillo's Facebook page 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 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.”
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