MasterChef Australia host Jock Zonfrillo has died aged 46, according to a message from his family and a statement from the show’s broadcaster. Zonfrillo, a Scottish-Australian father of four who was a judge on a popular TV cooking competition, was found dead by police in Melbourne early on Monday.
“With completely broken hearts and not knowing how we will get through life without him, we are devastated to learn that Jock has passed away,” his family said in a statement on social media.
Photo by Sam Tabone/WireImage via Getty
“For those who crossed his path, became his partner, or were lucky enough to be his family, keep this proud Scot in your heart when you get your next whiskey.”
No cause of death has been given but Victoria State Police said the death was not being treated as suspicious.
Police said they are preparing a coroner’s report.
MasterChef Australia broadcaster Network 10 and production house Endemol Shine Australia said they were “deeply saddened” by his sudden death.
“Talented and hard-working”, Zonfrillo – born in Glasgow to an Italian father and a Scottish mother – was heavily influenced by his parents’ culture, they said. “Jock’s charisma, wicked sense of humor, kindness, passion and love for food and his family cannot be measured. He will be greatly missed.”
MasterChef will not air this week following Zonfrillo’s death, the broadcaster said.
Scottish-born Australian rock star Jimmy Burns has taken to social media to say he has lost a “dear friend”.
“Jock was like a brother to me and we made each other laugh and cry. My heart goes out to his family,” Barnes wrote.
Celebrity chef Jamie Oliver also responded on social media, calling Zonfrillo’s death a “total shock.”
I am in complete shock to wake up to the sudden death of Chef Jock Zonfrillo. We had the best time working together for this…
Posted by Jamie Oliver on Sunday, April 30th, 2023
Chef Gordon Ramsay also took to social media to offer his condolences.
“Saddened by the devastating news of the passing of Jock Zonfrillo,” he wrote. “I really enjoyed our time together on MasterChef in Australia. Sending all my love to Lauren and family at this difficult time.”
Devastated by the devastating news of Jock Zonfrillo’s death. I really enjoyed our time together on MasterChef in Australia. Sending all my love to Lauren and family at this difficult time Gx
— Gordon Ramsay (@GordonRamsay) May 1, 2023