Jock Zonfrillo, a MasterChef Australia judge, renowned chef, and author, passed away on Sunday in Melbourne. He was 46. The terrible news was revealed by MasterChef Australia on Monday afternoon. Network 10 and Endemol Shine Australia released a statement that said, “Network 10 and Endemol Shine Australia are deeply shocked and saddened at the sudden loss of Jock Zonfrillo, a beloved member of the MasterChef family.” The new season of MasterChef Australia was scheduled to debut on Monday night, but Network 10 chose not to telecast it this week in observance of the funeral.
With a heavy heart, Zonfrillo’s family also confirmed the news on Monday via an official statement
With a heavy heart, Zonfrillo’s family also confirmed the news on Monday via an official statement shared on the chef’s Facebook page. “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,” his family said. “So many words can describe him so that 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.”
On social media, the chef received tributes from Laura Sharrad, Sarah Tiong, Depinder Chhibber, Minoli De Silva, Reynold Poernomo, and a number of previous MasterChef contestants. Poernomo expressed his dismay at the news and said he was “shocked” by it. In the meantime, chefs Dan Hong, Rosheen Kaul, and Colin Fassnidge sent their sympathies to Zonfrillo’s family.
